Liverpool and Manchester United are set to face off in the FA Cup quarter-finals this weekend at Old Trafford. While Liverpool may be the superior team, the form can go out the window in this fixture, as proven by the 0-0 draw at Anfield in the Premier League back in December. Here are 10 essential facts to know ahead of the game.
1. Liverpool’s final game before a break
The FA Cup clash against United will be Liverpool’s last match before the international break. This break will allow key players to return to the side and give Jurgen Klopp a chance to reset before their final push for the season.
2. United’s lackluster season
Manchester United has been mediocre this season, sitting sixth in the Premier League. While it’s lovely for Liverpool fans to see their rivals floundering, Old Trafford remains a difficult venue to play at.
3. Liverpool’s injury concerns
Ibrahima Konate is unlikely to be fit enough to face United due to a hamstring problem. However, Bobby Clark is fine after picking up a knock in a previous match, and Ryan Gravenberch has trained this week. Curtis Jones, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Diogo Jota are pushing to return for the league trip to United on April 7.
4. Predicted Liverpool lineup
With a two-week break coming up, Klopp has no reason not to pick his strongest possible side. Jarell Quansah will likely continue alongside Virgil van Dijk in defense, and Joe Gomez could get the nod at left-back. The midfield trio of Wataru Endo, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai is expected to play, with Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz, and Darwin Nunez leading the attack.
5. Possible Manchester United lineup
United has also been affected by injuries this season, missing key players. Defensive duo Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw will be absent, with Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire likely to start at center-back. Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford will pose a threat out wide, with Bruno Fernandes potentially playing as a false nine.
6. Klopp’s thoughts on the Europa League draw
Klopp expressed respect for Atalanta, Liverpool’s opponents in the Europa League quarter-finals. He acknowledged their ability to make games uncomfortable and praised their consistency.
7. FA Cup history between Liverpool and United
Sunday’s match will mark the 15th time these two teams have been drawn against each other in the FA Cup. United has had the upper hand in some past encounters, but Liverpool has also enjoyed success, with memorable wins at Anfield.
8. Salah’s impressive record against United
Mohamed Salah has a remarkable record against Manchester United, scoring 12 goals and providing four assists in 13 matches. He famously scored a hat-trick in the 5-0 win at Old Trafford in the 2021/22 season.
9. Referee for the match
John Brooks has been confirmed as the referee for Sunday’s game. He previously officiated three Liverpool matches this season, all of which ended in victories for the Reds.
10. How to follow the match
The match will be broadcast live on ITV 1, with kickoff at 3.30pm (GMT). Fans can also follow the action through TIA’s live blog, providing up-to-date coverage of the game.