The biggest fixture in English football is back — Liverpool vs Manchester United at Anfield — and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Two of the most decorated clubs in Premier League history, both desperate for a statement win after a turbulent start to the season.
For Liverpool, this isn’t just about pride. It’s about redemption.
Arne Slot’s men return from the international break wounded and searching for rhythm after three straight defeats — their most recent heartbreak, a 2-1 loss to Chelsea. The defending champions still sit second in the Premier League table, but their performances have lacked that trademark energy and precision fans expect from a team chasing their record 21st English title.
Now comes the ultimate test — Manchester United at Anfield — a fixture soaked in history, rivalry, and drama.
But the Reds may have to do it without several key players, including three crucial midfielders.
Here’s a look at nine players who could miss Sunday’s showdown — and what that means for both sides.
LIVERPOOL TEAM NEWS
1. Alisson Becker – OUT
The heartbeat of Liverpool’s defense, Alisson Becker, remains sidelined with a recurring hamstring injury.
The Brazilian has battled similar issues before, and Arne Slot isn’t taking any chances.
“I would be surprised if he would be there for the first game after the international break,” Slot admitted. “From there on, things can go faster or a bit slower.”
Without Alisson, the Reds lose one of the world’s best shot-stoppers — and a calming presence that keeps the backline organized. Expect Caoimhin Kelleher to step in once again, though his task against a hungry United attack will be anything but easy.
2. Ibrahima Konaté – DOUBT
A major worry for Liverpool. The French defender returned from international duty nursing a quad issue, putting his availability in serious doubt.
Konaté’s absence would leave Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez as the only senior central defenders available. With United’s front line featuring the likes of Rasmus Højlund and Marcus Rashford, that’s a gamble Slot won’t want to take.
Liverpool fans will be crossing their fingers that Konaté passes a late fitness test.
3. Conor Bradley – OUT
The promising 18-year-old defender is still on the long road to recovery after undergoing ACL surgery earlier this year.
Bradley’s development had excited fans, but the focus now is simply on getting him back fully fit for next season.
🇯🇵 4. Wataru Endo – DOUBT
This one came as a surprise. Liverpool’s Japanese captain Wataru Endo pulled out of international duty with Japan due to a minor fitness issue.
Endo only featured briefly in the loss to Chelsea before the break, and the fact that he didn’t represent his national team suggests the problem may be more serious than initially thought.
Given Endo’s importance in providing defensive balance and midfield stability, Slot will be hoping his captain can make a late recovery.
5. Ryan Gravenberch – MINOR DOUBT
A small scare for the Dutchman. Gravenberch came off at half-time during the Netherlands’ 4-0 win over Finland, citing tightness in his hamstring.
While he reassured reporters it was “just precautionary,” hamstring issues can quickly worsen if not handled properly.
With matches coming thick and fast, Slot won’t risk rushing him back unless he’s 100% fit.
If he doesn’t make it, Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister could be tasked with heavy midfield duty.
6. Stefan Bajcetic – OUT
It’s been a frustrating period for the talented young Spaniard.
Bajcetic, who impressed fans with his technical ability and composure last season, is still yet to play this campaign after undergoing hamstring surgery during his loan spell at Las Palmas.
He’s expected to get minutes with the under-21 side before returning to full first-team action — but Sunday’s clash is too soon.
MANCHESTER UNITED TEAM NEWS
7. Lisandro Martínez – OUT
A huge loss for United. The Argentine warrior, known for his intensity and leadership, is still recovering from a knee injury and won’t feature at Anfield.
Martínez’s absence leaves United’s defense looking fragile once again, with Harry Maguire and Raphaël Varane expected to start — a pairing that has struggled for consistency.
8. Noussair Mazraoui – MINOR DOUBT
The Moroccan full-back has missed United’s last two matches and was only an unused substitute during international duty.
Although not a long-term concern, he remains a doubt for Sunday and may only make the bench.
If Mazraoui doesn’t recover in time, expect Diogo Dalot to continue at right-back.
9. Ayden Heaven – DOUBT
A lesser-known name but one for the future. The young centre-half was withdrawn while representing England’s Under-20s, and though he wasn’t expected to start, his absence further depletes United’s defensive depth.
THE BIG PICTURE
Both sides are walking into Sunday’s clash with injury headaches — but the pressure sits heavier on Liverpool.
Arne Slot knows that three consecutive defeats have already tested the patience of fans who expect dominance from their title-defending side. Another loss — especially to Manchester United — could spark real frustration around Anfield.
United, meanwhile, arrive inconsistent but dangerous. Under Rúben Amorim, progress has been slow, and they haven’t won at Anfield since 2016 — a painful drought they’ll be desperate to end.
But history favors the Reds. Liverpool have turned Anfield into a fortress against United in recent years, and even with injuries piling up, the atmosphere alone could tilt the balance in their favor.
With stars like Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Luis Díaz ready to shine, expect fireworks, tension, and possibly another unforgettable chapter in English football’s most intense rivalry.
Final Word
Whether you wear red or red-and-white, one thing’s for sure — this fixture never disappoints.
Nine potential absences, two under-pressure managers, and one iconic stadium ready to roar.
Liverpool vs Manchester United — it’s more than a game. It’s pride, passion, and Premier League drama at its finest.
