Top-five race heats up in the PL
The Red Devils welcome Liverpool to Old Trafford on Sunday in a fixture that carries significant weight in the race for CL qualification. With just four matches remaining, both sides are closing in on a top-five finish, but there is still enough at stake to give this rivalry real edge. Let’s take a closer look at Sunday’s big PL match!
Match Analysis
Manchester United’s resurgence under Michael Carrick has transformed their season. Since taking charge in January, they have collected more points than any other side, combining defensive stability with greater attacking control. Their home form has been particularly strong, winning six of their last seven at Old Trafford, and turning the stadium back into a difficult venue for visiting teams.
Liverpool arrive with momentum of their own. Three consecutive league wins have kept them firmly in the hunt, but their performances against top opposition remain a concern. They have won just one of their last 12 league matches against teams starting the day in the top three, suggesting a vulnerability when stepping up in level.
Tactically, this shapes as a contest between United’s control and Liverpool’s ability to capitalise on transitions. United will look to dictate tempo through Bruno Fernandes, who continues to be central to everything they create, while Liverpool’s threat may rely more on moments of directness. The likely absence of Mohamed Salah removes a key attacking outlet, something which could prove decisive, especially with Ekitike already out.
Recent meetings between the sides underline how fine the margins tend to be. Four of the last six have ended in draws, while matches at Old Trafford have consistently produced goals. With both teams in strong form and so much at stake, this looks set to be another tightly contested encounter.
Team News
Manchester United will be without Lisandro Martínez through suspension, while Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined with a back injury. Luke Shaw and Matheus Cunha are doubts.
Liverpool are expected to be without Mohamed Salah, along with Conor Bradley, Giovanni Leoni, Wataru Endo and Hugo Ekitiké. Alisson could return in goal after missing recent matches.
Odds and Tips
This has all the ingredients of a balanced contest. Manchester United’s home form gives them a slight edge, but Liverpool’s ability to stay competitive even in difficult matches suggests they will remain in the game throughout.
Tip: Draw at 3.75.
Don’t forget that we also have Early Payout on this match, which you can read more about here.
Please note that the odds might have changed since the writing and/or publication of this article.
Last Updated: 01.05.2026
