Liverpool will start the new year by hosting rival Manchester United on January 4th at Anfield. I know the old mantra is that everyone wants a fresh start in the new year, but the same old would be just fine for the Reds. They sit atop the Premier League Table and are still alive in all the cup competitions.
A Look At United
Manchester United are a hard team to predict. They have lost 4 out of their last 5 league matches and sit 14th on the table. They have a new manager Ruben Amorim after firing Eric ten Hag earlier in the campaign. However, Amorim remains confident that his squad can turn things around in the new year.
“I know it will take a lot of hard work from everyone to get there, but I am very excited about where we can go together in 2025,” Amorim wrote via X.
On the pitch, the Red Devils are led by Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes with four goals each.
What Does Slot Say?
For much of the presser, Slot answered questions about the future of the team, but he preferred to focus on the game at hand.
“We need to be in the best possible way prepared because every game in the Premier League is a difficult one, but especially a game where you face quality players that, I think, will feel this is a chance for them to make their fans proud again,” he said. So, if they do the same – winning at West Ham United away – the fans will like it, but it's even more important for them to win here at Anfield. Then, quality players are always dangerous if they set their mind to something, so we have to be really, really, really well prepared to beat United.”
Facts & Figures
Liverpool have had a strong recent record against United, producing results in 12 of the 13 matches. After their win at Old Trafford earlier this season, Arne Slot has the chance to become just the second first-year manager to earn the double over Manchester United in club history. The other was George Kay in the 1936-37 season.
United have only scored one goal during their last 8 Premier League matches at Anfield. Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah has scored 12 goals vs United during his career, more than any other player in Premier League history.
LFC Globe Verdict
Happy New Year Everyone!! Here's hoping the Reds can keep pushing for a Premier League title in the new year. I saw Liverpool play United in Columbia, South Carolina during the pre-season, a 3-0 win by the Reds. They also beat United 3-0 at Old Trafford. I think this match will be closer, however since it is a rivalry match. I think Liverpool will hold on for a 2-1 win.
Where To Watch
Kickoff is set for 16:30 GMT and can be seen on Sky Sports. The match has been selected as Game Of The Week in the United States and will air on NBC with a Spanish Language Broadcast available on Telemundo. Canadian fans can stream the action via Fubo.