Few fixtures in world football carry the weight of expectation as much as when Liverpool meet Manchester United. Two teams that have a rich history of dominating England, whilst having deep-rooted hostility.
There is a hatred in the air when the teams come face-to-face, and that feeling possesses every supporter of both sides again this afternoon when the two titans clash.
As Arne Slot’s side travel to Old Trafford, they know a win will confirm their place in the Champions League next season, making it imperative they come away with the three points.
The Reds have enjoyed themselves on a few occasions when they have headed down the East Lancs Road in the last several years, which have seen them hammer the Red Devils on several occasions, such as last season, when they cruised to a 3-0 win at the beginning of their title-winning campaign.
The last time they matched that scoreline was in 2013-14, when Brendan Rodgers’ side was involved in a title battle themselves. Daniel Sturridge was key in ensuring a win over their rivals, when Nemanja Vidic brought him down inside the box.
Speaking on Sky Sports, the 36-year-old commented on how important this meeting is to both sets of supporters.
“Winning this game brings a different buzz to the fanbase. It means a lot to both of them”
When the teams met earlier this season, it was the first time United had won at Anfield since January 2016. It was a period where the Reds had lost a few games in a row, though there was faith that results could be turned around.
Fast forward to today, and that enthusiasm from the supporters has drained, with a lack of belief not just in the players, but their head coach, who has faced scrutiny at different points this season.
A win last weekend over Crystal Palace has put Slot’s troops back on track, though a defeat today would put the Dutchman on a tight rope regarding reaction from the Liverpool supporters.
Sturridge acknowledges Slot’s position
As well as recognising how crucial winning this game is to the fans, getting one over their arch enemy, Sturridge claimed it’s also hugely significant to Slot.
“It’s to steady the perception of a downfall, and he’s done a good job in the last few weeks, getting results and building on the blocks. He’s getting players fit again, getting more confidence into the players, but today is a big, big game.”
There have been signs of improvement. Florian Wirtz capped off a great performance against the Eagles with a goal last weekend, though for the £116 million fee, these are the games he’s expected to deliver, and it will be seen if he can light up Old Trafford. Other players have looked more confident, but whether they can do their job, it remains to be seen.
While some players have returned from injury, others have suffered. Alexander Isak is the most recent to pick up an issue, with a groin problem sidelining him this afternoon, though he’s expected to return before the season concludes.
Despite that, with how the season has gone, few will give their Dutch head coach the benefit of the doubt when it comes to this game. The last testing away match came in the Champions League against Paris-Saint Germain, and the way the Reds were set up that evening left a sour taste for the Kopites.
The last time the Red Devils did the league double over the Reds was in 2015/16. That simply can’t be allowed to happen again today, even with the rising injury list.
Everyone who represents the Liver bird today must be counted upon to do their job and ensure that, at worst, they come away with a point.
The former striker knows that a bright start is needed in Manchester if they are to be a threat this afternoon.
“The sentiments of them coming into the stadium today is that ‘listen, we’ve got to start fast, we’ve got to bring high energy’, these are the games you live for as a player.”
As kick-off approaches, the tension begins to build, as the Anfield outfit must turn up today of all days, as it’s a test of character and belief to see if this side can deliver when it matters most.
