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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Benjamin Sesko of Manchester United celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Everton and Manchester United at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on February 23, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Manchester United hosted Liverpool FC at Old Trafford on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in a key Premier League clash that directly affected the race for Champions League qualification. The match kicked off at 14:30 GMT, with both sides entering the game separated by just three points.

United came in third with 61 points, while Liverpool sat fourth with 58. The result was expected to shape the final stretch of the season, especially with both teams aiming to secure a top-four finish.

Manchester United vs Liverpool  Team News and Expected Lineups

Manchester United is dealing with defensive absences. Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez are both unavailable, forcing changes at the back. Despite that, United still has enough attacking quality to trouble Liverpool.

Liverpool’s biggest miss is Mohamed Salah, who is out with a muscle injury. His absence removes a major threat to a goal. There are also issues with the goal, with Alisson Becker and Giorgi Mamardashvili unavailable, meaning Freddie Woodman is expected to start.

That situation could be key. Facing United’s attack at Old Trafford is already difficult. Doing it with a third-choice goalkeeper raises the level of challenge.

Form Guide and What’s at Stake

Under manager Michael Carrick, Manchester United have picked up momentum at the right time. Wins over Chelsea and Brentford have boosted confidence, and the team is now chasing a league double over Liverpool for the first time since the 2015/16 season.

Liverpool, led by Arne Slot, comes into this game on a three-match winning run in the league. That form has kept them firmly in the top-four race, but this is a bigger test away from home.

A United win would create breathing room. A Liverpool victory would pull them level and increase pressure heading into the final weeks.

Final Outlook

This match comes down to execution. United have a home advantage and slightly more stability in their squad. Liverpool arrives with form but also with key injuries.

Both teams know what is on the line. A top-four finish is not guaranteed for either side, and this result could define the final stretch of their season.

Expect a fast start, direct play, and little room for error.