Liverpool vs Manchester United: Key updates ahead of kickoff
Liverpool head into the weekend’s big Premier League clash with Manchester United buoyed by a potential return to action for midfield talisman Ryan Gravenberch and defender Ibrahima Konaté. Both players were touch-and-go after recent niggles, but manager Arne Slot indicated they could be in contention to start as the Reds chase a vital win to halt their slide in the table.
The Dutch midfielder Gravenberch was withdrawn at halftime in the Netherlands’ win over Finland due to a hamstring concern. Slot later confirmed Gravenberch is “completely fit,” suggesting he should be available for selection against United on Sunday. Konaté, who had to come off in a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea two weeks ago, is also expected to train and push for a role in defense.
Crucially, Liverpool will be without their first-choice goalkeeper in Alisson Becker for this match and the following week. Slot revealed that Alisson will miss the weekend and next week as he continues his hamstring rehabilitation, with Giorgi Mamardashvili set to continue deputising in goal. That means Liverpool’s spine will face a stern test as they attempt to arrest a three-game losing streak heading into the international break.
Possible lineup considerations for the weekend
With Alisson sidelined, Mamardashvili’s recent Premier League appearance will be tested again on home soil. The backline options give Slot added flexibility. Milos Kerkez has impressed enough to retain left-back duties, while the right-back slot remains the most intriguing decision of the defensive setup.
Jeremie Frimpong joined for a substantial fee this summer but has endured limited league action. Conor Bradley and Dominik Szoboszlai have also been used in the position, leaving Slot with a fresh decision about who starts at right-back, especially with the possibility of a midfield reversion.
In midfield, the Dutch coach could opt to pair Gravenberch with Dominik Szoboszlai if he moves back into a more advanced role, or allow the former to anchor the midfield alongside players like Florent Wirtz. Florent Wirtz is anticipated to start in the middle of the attacking midfield trio, while Alexis Mac Allister could miss out if Slot prioritises a different balance in midfield. Mohamed Salah remains a near-certain starter on the right wing, aiming to extend his strong history against United.
Attack and formations: who leads the line?
Mohamed Salah has shown moments of clinical form after an unusually subdued start to the season, scoring for his nation during the international window and looking to translate that into club goals against United. The left-side position could see Hugo Ekitike or Alexander Isak potentially pressuring Cody Gakpo for a starting berth. Slot’s preference for versatility makes a frontline experiment plausible, especially to test new combinations following the recent run of disappointing results.
Gakpo’s role remains pivotal; his involvement in goals for the Netherlands provides confidence, but his club form will be under scrutiny as Slot considers balancing proven scorers with dynamic young forwards. The potential inclusion of Ekitike on the left could free Gakpo to roam centrally or swap flanks, providing fresh movement against a United defense that will be keen to stem the tide of Liverpool’s pressure.
Injuries and strategic considerations
Beyond Alisson’s injury, there are no new long-term concerns reported for the squad. The technical staff will be hoping the returning Gravenberch and Konaté can hit the ground running to steady a team that needs to rediscover its rhythm after a turbulent spell. The tactical setup will be scrutinised for clues on whether Slot prioritises a more compact midfield or a high-pressing, expansive approach that has characterized Liverpool’s recent seasons.
Sunday’s clash promises to be a pivotal moment for Liverpool as they attempt to reclaim momentum and push back toward the Premier League summit. The Reds’ ability to cope without their first-choice goalkeeper while integrating Gravenberch and Konaté will be a major storyline as the season progresses.
Bottom line
All eyes will be on whether Gravenberch and Konaté can make an immediate impact and how Slot lines up his defense and attack to counter United. With Salah’s involvement, potential frontline changes, and a depleted goalkeeping position, Liverpool will need a cohesive performance to snap their current run and restore confidence ahead of the international break.
