Premier League 2023-24: Liverpool vs Manchester United: Combined XI

Published at :December 16, 2023 at 9:18 PM

Modified at :January 14, 2024 at 12:24 AM

The long-term rivals meet again in the Premier League

Few matchups capture the essence of competition and rivalry quite like a face-off between Manchester United and Liverpool. This Sunday, Anfield becomes the battleground for a high-profile clash between two of the Premier League’s behemoths, promising a spectacle that transcends mere sport.

Liverpool’s Soaring Triumphs and Recent Setback

This season, Liverpool have emerged as the undisputed powerhouse, dominating the Premier League rankings with a brand of football that borders on the sublime. The Merseyside club’s journey to the summit, however, hit an unexpected roadblock last week in the form of a shocking 2-1 Europa League defeat to Union Saint-Gilloise.

The setback served as a wake-up call for Jurgen Klopp’s side, a reminder that even the mightiest can stumble. As they prepare to face Manchester United, Liverpool are undoubtedly driven by an unwavering determination to reclaim their invincible status.

Manchester United’s Quest for Redemption

On the opposite end of the spectrum lies Manchester United, a team that has grappled with inconsistency this season. Currently residing in sixth place in the league, the Red Devils are on a mission to resurrect their campaign after a razor-thin 1-0 loss to Bayern Munich last week.

With an aura of resilience, Manchester United march into Anfield, eager to prove their mettle against a formidable adversary. The clash with Liverpool presents an opportunity for redemption, a chance for Erik ten Hag’s squad to silence doubters and reignite their pursuit of Premier League success.

Liverpool vs Manchester United: Analysing the Combined XI

The Combined XI Analysis ( Formation 4-2-1-3 )

As the excitement builds for the upcoming showdown, let’s look into the combined XI, meticulously curated based on this season’s standout performances and player availability for the clash.

Goalkeeper: Allison Becker (Liverpool)

Leading the defensive charge is none other than Liverpool’s indomitable guardian, Allison Becker. Renowned for his acrobatic saves, impeccable shot-stopping ability, and commanding presence in the penalty area, Becker stands as an impregnable force between the goalposts. He has a complete edge over Andre Onana. So, he gets into our XI.

Right Back: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)

In the right-back position, we find the dynamic Trent Alexander-Arnold, a maestro renowned for his marauding runs down the flank. His exceptional crossing precision and attacking threat in right-back make him a formidable force on the right side of Liverpool’s defence.

Right Centre Back: Raphael Varane (Manchester United)

Stepping into the center-back position is Manchester United’s defensive virtuoso, Raphael Varane. With poise, precision in tackles, and a keen ability to read the game, Varane stands as a stalwart defender, fortifying the backline with his world-class skills.

Left Centre Back: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)

Partnering with Varane is Liverpool’s towering colossus, Virgil van Dijk. A defensive stalwart known for his aerial dominance composed of ball control and leadership on the field, van Dijk forms an impervious barrier in the heart of Liverpool’s defence.

Left Back: Diogo Dalot (Manchester United)

Completing the defensive quartet is Manchester United’s versatile guardian, Diogo Dalot. Known for his adaptability and defensive traits, Dalot provides a reliable presence on the left flank, contributing both defensively and offensively. He will definitely be the pick, keeping in mind his performance this season.

Right Centre Midfielder: Scott McTominay (Manchester United)

In the midfield engine room, Manchester United’s Scott McTominay assumes the role of the right centre midfielder. His relentless work rate, physical traits, and ability to break up opposition play make him an indispensable cog in the team’s midfield dynamism.

Left Centre Midfielder: Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool)

On the left side of the midfield, we find Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister, a maestro orchestrating midfield control. With creativity, vision, and a complete understanding of the game, Mac Allister ensures the team’s tempo flows seamlessly.

CAM: Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)

Dominik Szoboszlai Liverpool Premier League — **Dominik Szoboszlai left RB Leipzig to join Liverpool**

In the attacking midfield role, we have Dominik Szoboszlai, poised to be the creative catalyst. While Bruno Fernandes would have been a natural choice, Szoboszlai steps in with flair and playmaking abilities, promising to be the linchpin of the team’s attacking class. If Bruno Fernandes was available for this game, he would have made his way into our combined XI. However, the Portuguese attacking midfielder Fernandes picked up his fifth booking of the season in United’s previous game, where they suffered a 3-0 home defeat against Bournemouth.

Also Read: Liverpool vs Manchester United: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Right Wing: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Liverpool’s goal-scoring dynamo, Mohamed Salah, takes his place on the right wing. Salah’s electrifying pace, goal-scoring trait, and ability to cut inside pose a constant threat to opposing defenses, making him a relentless force on the right flank.

**Premier League 2023-24: Liverpool vs Manchester United: Combined XI**

Striker: Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)

Despite facing fitness concerns earlier in the week, Marcus Rashford has recovered in time to lead the line. His explosive pace, clinical finishing, and ability to create goal-scoring opportunities make him the speedy sharpshooter in the combined XI’s attacking arsenal. Because of sickness, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford both skipped training this week. However, Rashford has recovered in time and hence gets into Khel Now‘s combined XI.

Left Wing: Luiz Diaz (Liverpool)

Completing the attacking trident is the dazzling wing wizard, Luiz Diaz. His flair, mesmerizing dribbling ability, and knack for finding the back of the net make him a valuable asset on the left wing, adding a touch of magic to the team’s attacking threat.

As the sun sets over Anfield and the crowd roars in anticipation, the stage is set for a football spectacle that transcends the boundaries of ordinary competition. The clash between Manchester United and Liverpool is not just a game; it’s a narrative of resilience, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of glory.

In the Premier League, every match is a chapter in the story of footballing giants, and this encounter between Manchester United and Liverpool promises to be a defining moment in the season.

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