Manchester United can confirm Champions League qualification this weekend when they face arch-rivals Liverpool.
There is always pride at stake when Liverpool come to town, but Manchester United also have a chance to consolidate third place in the Premier League table this weekend.
The Red Devils can take confidence from back-to-back wins over Chelsea and Brentford, but form often goes out the window in a fierce derby clash.
In the reverse fixture this season, United beat Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield under Ruben Amorim, and now Michael Carrick has an opportunity to land a league double over the Merseysiders.
Milos Kerkez of Liverpool is challenged by Matthijs de Ligt of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield on October 19, 2025
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
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Matthijs de Ligt and Mason Mount split
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Man United will be missing ‘warrior’ Matthijs de Ligt
Once again, Carrick has some tough selection decisions to make for the Liverpool clash, especially in defence.
Lisandro Martinez is serving his suspension for his red card against Leeds United, and Matthijs de Ligt is a long-term injury absentee who is set to be sidelined for the clash.
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Back in October, De Ligt was a “warrior” against Liverpool and was rated as United’s best player on the pitch in our player ratings.
The Dutch defender dominated up against Liverpool’s forwards and was a key figure in securing all three points.
Carrick won’t have the luxury of having De Ligt available this weekend, so he will have to put his faith in youth once again.
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De Ligt / Martinez
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Ayden Heaven can step up in De Ligt’s absence
De Ligt’s aggression and front-foot defending was top class against Liverpool at Anfield, and United will need that same kind of tenacity from their back line on Sunday.
Carrick should stick with the same back line that impressed against Brentford last time out, including a centre-back partnership of Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven.
Maguire scored the winner against Liverpool at Anfield last time out, while Heaven has been in very impressive form.
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Heaven has world-class potential, and he has proven this season that he is more than ready to be playing Premier League football regularly.
Despite being just 19 years old, Heaven brings the same aerial presence as De Ligt, as well as his aggression in defending.
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