Manchester United Manager Michael Carrick during the Premier League match at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth 20/03/2026
Manchester United Manager Michael Carrick during the Premier League match at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth 20/03/2026
Liverpool will be looking to get one over on their fierce rivals Manchester United when the two sides meet at Anfield later this month, with both clubs having plenty to prove heading into the fixture.
The Reds have endured an inconsistent spell of results recently, suffering defeats against Arsenal and Fenerbahce, after initially seeing an improvement in results after impressive victories against the likes of Bournemouth, Brentford and Brighton.
Manchester United, meanwhile, have struggled for consistency in the Premier League, although their dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Roma in midweek will have provided a much-needed boost.
It is difficult to predict which way this one will go, but with home advantage and the quality available in their squad, Liverpool should be ready to give this game everything and come away with all three points.
Michael Carrick has now provided an injury update which could have an impact on United’s preparations for the meeting.
Carlos Baleba has been ruled out for a number of weeks after picking up an injury against Roma.
The midfielder was actually linked with a move to Liverpool before eventually making the switch to Old Trafford from Brighton in the summer.
Reports earlier this year suggested the Reds had entered the race for his signature, with Manchester United also keeping a close eye on the Cameroon international.
However, it was Carrick’s side who eventually won the race for his services.
Baleba was withdrawn shortly after half-time during United’s 3-2 comeback victory over Roma on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old had made a promising run into the opposition penalty area before pulling up and clutching the back of his leg.
He was unable to continue and was replaced.
United will now be without the midfielder for Sunday’s meeting with Aston Villa, while his absence is expected to continue beyond the November international break.
Speaking on Friday in his latest press conference, Carrick confirmed the latest news on his summer signing.
“Carlos we don’t know exactly [the severity], but it’ll be a number of weeks yet,” he explained.
“Definitely not this week and not over the international break, it will be a little bit longer yet.”
That is a significant concern for United, with their trip to Anfield on November 22 fast approaching.
While there is still time for Baleba to make progress in his recovery, Carrick’s latest comments suggest Liverpool could face United without one of their important midfield additions.
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