Football Prediction | Liverpool vs Manchester United | English Premier League | Jan 5 – Can Liverpool Extend Their Lead at the Top With Another Dominant Display?

Premier League giants Liverpool and Manchester United are set to clash at Anfield on Sunday, January 5th, 2025, at 10:30 PM (GMT). Liverpool, under Jürgen Klopp, will aim to solidify their position at the top of the table with a convincing win, while Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United will look to bounce back from recent struggles and secure a crucial victory in their campaign.

Liverpool vs Manchester United Form Guide

Liverpool

Liverpool has displayed their characteristic attacking prowess this season, with Mohamed Salah leading the charge and Luis Díaz proving invaluable in creating and converting chances. The Reds are particularly strong in finishing scoring opportunities, counter-attacks, and attacking down the wings. However, their vulnerability to through-ball attacks remains an area of concern.

Manchester United

Manchester United has shown glimpses of quality under Erik ten Hag but has struggled with consistency. Their defensive solidity, led by the likes of Lisandro Martínez, and their ability to steal possession are strengths. However, weaknesses in finishing scoring chances and defending set-pieces have often let them down.

Liverpool vs Manchester United Key Battles

Mohamed Salah vs Bruno Fernandes

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, with an impressive 17 goals this season, squares off against Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, who has netted 4 times. Salah’s lethal finishing and ability to exploit spaces make him Liverpool’s primary attacking weapon, while Fernandes’ vision and knack for scoring key goals keep him central to United’s offense. This battle highlights two players with contrasting but vital roles for their teams.

Luis Díaz vs Amad Diallo

Liverpool’s Luis Díaz, contributing 10 goals and assists, faces Manchester United’s Amad Diallo, who has 8 goal contributions. Díaz’s ability to stretch defenses with his dribbling and creativity will test United’s backline, while Diallo’s flair and quick feet make him a dangerous player in transitions. This duel could shape the creative dynamics of the match and influence the attacking momentum for both sides.

Liverpool vs Manchester United Tactical Outlook

Liverpool will look to dominate possession and dictate the tempo, with their play centered around Salah and Díaz. Klopp’s side will employ their usual pressing game, utilizing short passes and attacking through the middle to exploit gaps in United’s defense.

Manchester United will aim to hit Liverpool on the counter, relying on Bruno Fernandes’ vision and Alejandro Garnacho’s pace down the left flank. Erik ten Hag’s side will attempt to absorb Liverpool’s pressure and create opportunities through long shots and quick transitions.

Head-to-Head Encounters

Liverpool and Manchester United have faced each other numerous times, with the Red Devils holding a slight historical edge with 16 wins to Liverpool’s 14, and 10 matches ending in draws. However, Liverpool’s recent form and home advantage make them favorites for this encounter.

Read More: Football Prediction | Manchester City vs West Ham United | EPL 2024-25 – Jan 4

Injury News and Suspensions

Liverpool 

Liverpool faces some fitness concerns ahead of their upcoming fixtures. Conor Bradley is dealing with a hamstring injury, making him doubtful for selection. Ibrahima Konaté is also on the injury list with a knee issue, and his participation remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Joseph Gomez continues his recovery from a hamstring injury, with an expected return date set for early February 2025. Manager Jürgen Klopp will need to carefully manage his defensive options, particularly with multiple players in the backline struggling with fitness.

Manchester United 

Manchester United has a string of injuries affecting key players. Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford are sidelined until mid-January 2025 due to a hamstring injury and illness, respectively. Mason Mount, nursing a muscle injury, also shares a similar timeline for his return. Victor Nilsson Lindelöf is recovering from a concussion and will be unavailable until mid-January as well. Manager Erik ten Hag faces a challenging period, with significant absences impacting both his defensive stability and attacking depth.

Liverpool vs Manchester United Possible Playing Squads

Liverpool

Becker (GK), Robertson, Van Dijk, Konaté, Alexander-Arnold, Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Jones,Salah, Díaz, Gakpo

Manchester United

Onana(GK), Martínez, Maguire, Mazraoui, Dalot, Mainoo, Ugarte, Fernandes, Garnacho, Diallo, Højlund

Match Details at a Glance

Match Prediction

Liverpool’s attacking quality and home advantage make them favorites to secure a win against Manchester United. The visitors’ struggles with defending set-pieces and finishing chances could prove costly.

Score Prediction

Liverpool is likely to secure a dominant 3-0 victory over Manchester United in their upcoming clash. With their attacking force and high pressing game, Liverpool should outplay United, especially at home. Manchester United may struggle to cope with Liverpool’s intensity and offensive threat. Expect a convincing win for the Reds as they control the match from start to finish.

Disclaimer: This Football prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.