Liverpool takes on Manchester United on Sunday, with neither side showing any consistency in recent weeks, which should add to an already nervous atmosphere ahead of the biggest game of English football.
The Premier League Champions are experiencing their worst patch of form arguably under Arne Slot, with three straight defeats in all competitions. Given the context of their victories this season, Slot will be looking to accompany a good performance with a victory, considering how Liverpool have rarely looked convincing in any of their wins in the league. While some could argue that the last-minute results against the likes of Burnley demonstrated the desire and grit of the Champions, these efforts have ultimately worked against them. This is particularly evident in their last two league games, where they conceded two injury-time goals against Crystal Palace and Chelsea.
As for Manchester United, they can't form consecutive league results or even perhaps conjure up a sustained period of league form. This season, barring the draw away at Fulham, Manchester United have either won or lost their league matches with a record of three wins, one draw and three losses. Away from home, the Red Devils are without an away win in the Premier League since March, when they beat recently relegated side, Leicester City.
Liverpool will look to seize upon Manchester United's inconsistencies despite their recent form, particularly the away side's dismal record at Anfield. The last time Manchester United won at Anfield was in 2016, when the Red Devils recorded a 1-0 victory against Liverpool thanks to a goal from Wayne Rooney. Since that victory, the Red Devils have suffered embarrassing results, with the 7-0 humbling from two seasons ago still fresh in their minds.
Looking ahead to this game, the player likely to make an impact and be a deciding factor is Mohamed Salah. The 33-year-old has a tremendous record against Manchester United, contributing 23 goals in 17 matches across all competitions against the Red Devils.
Both teams have shown their defensive frailties in recent weeks, but given Manchester United's atrocious record at Anfield, we can see this continuing on Sunday. The fixtures between the two sides have tended to provide goals, with over 2.5 goals scored in nine of the last ten meetings.
Arne Slot's side should have their focus and mentality right after the international break, and that should see them over the line in a 3-1 win for the Premier League Champions.
Liverpool 3-1 Manchester United
