Liverpool Starting XI vs Man Utd: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Liverpool Handed Timely Fitness Boost Ahead of Manchester United Showdown

Liverpool and Manchester United fixtures rarely need extra spice, yet the latest meeting arrives with a decisive injection of optimism for Arne Slot. The champions are expected to welcome back both Ryan Gravenberch and Ibrahima Konate in time for Sunday’s clash, providing a much-needed lift following a stuttering run of three defeats before the international break.

Slot confirmed that Gravenberch is “completely fit” after a hamstring complaint forced him off at half-time during the Netherlands’ win over Finland. Konate, who limped out of the 2-1 loss to Chelsea, was also “expected to train,” suggesting the Frenchman is on course to return to central defence alongside Virgil van Dijk.

Selection Dilemmas Across Defence

Even with Konate back, Liverpool remain without first-choice goalkeeper Alisson, ruled out for “this weekend and next week” as he continues to recover from a hamstring issue of his own. Giorgi Mamardashvili, fresh from his Premier League debut before the break, is set to retain his place between the posts against Manchester United, Eintracht Frankfurt and likely Brentford.

Milos Kerkez will be hopeful of keeping his position at left-back given Andy Robertson’s recent dip, while the right flank presents a genuine tactical debate. Jeremie Frimpong, a marquee summer signing, has only one league start so far with Conor Bradley and even Dominik Szoboszlai utilised in the role. The Dutchman’s restful international break could edge him into contention, particularly if Slot wants Szoboszlai restored to midfield.

Midfield Balance And Final Third Firepower

Florian Wirtz is tipped to operate centrally in the attacking trio which may squeeze out Alexis Mac Allister. Mohamed Salah is certain to start on the right, fresh from scoring twice for Egypt. His pedigree against Manchester United borders on brutal. No player in Premier League history has been involved in more goals against them, recording 13 goals and six assists in just 15 appearances.

Cody Gakpo will feel he has earned a place in the starting line-up after scoring Liverpool’s only goal against Chelsea, then contributing to four goals for the Netherlands over the break. Yet Slot’s willingness to rotate his frontline could see Hugo Ekitike or Alexander Isak drafted in from the start. “Still, this could be a good chance for Slot to continue experimenting with a frontline that includes both Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak,” noted one source close to the dressing room rhythm.

If Ekitike starts on the left, Gakpo may drop out. Should Isak be the one to miss out in favour of central thrust from Ekitike, Gakpo could retain his spot. The competition reflects Liverpool’s depth rather than indecision. Having stumbled prior to the break, Slot appears keen to shake things up rather than retreat into conservatism.

Predicted Line-Up And Match Details

Liverpool predicted XI (4-2-3-1):Mamardashvili, Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Salah, Wirtz, Ekitike, Isak

Time and date: 4:30pm BST on Sunday, October 19, 2025How to watch: Sky Sports Main Event

Liverpool versus Manchester United rarely disappoints, but this renewal feels loaded with narrative. History says Salah will be decisive. Momentum suggests Slot needs a statement. The returning pair of Gravenberch and Konate might just provide it.