Experts call the Man United vs Liverpool match a "derby of the same sufferers", however, the suffering of the two teams is completely different. And even when "suffering", Liverpool is still rated higher despite playing at Old Trafford.
Coach Erik ten Hag is "suffering" despite having almost the strongest squad. The absence of Victor Lindelof and facundo Pellistri does not affect Ten Hag's plans, but the problem is that Man United does not have enough personnel to promote the tactics he wants.
Casemiro has just bought but is not ready for this match, Lisandro Martinez is being doubted about his ability to succeed in the Premier League because his physique is too small in the center-back position. Christian Eriksen is expected but around him are names that do not play enthusiastically like at Brentford - Eriksen's team that joined for a few months and just defeated the Red Devils 4-0.
Cristiano Ronaldo, a 37-year-old superstar, is being criticized for being "no longer vibrant". However, putting the problem in reverse, when the squad is not in harmony in all aspects - both professionally and mentally, it is difficult to promote his scoring ability.
Just look at the way Real Madrid played with Ronaldo and Man United at the moment, the difference is obvious. At the Bernabeu, the ball is directed in the simplest way possible and always finds the position he chooses. On the contrary, Man United's midfielders or explosive players tend to make "unique" assists, forcing Ronaldo to move. That is the reason Ronaldo is showing "weakness" against English defenders.
Virgil van Dijk or Joe Gomez could "pocket" Ronaldo if Man United could not take possession and put him in positions that could finish.
Jurgen Klopp's "suffering" relationship at the moment is that there are up to 8 cases of players absent due to injury and suspension cards. Most of them have played a certain role at each moment in the Kop's playing style.
But that only made it difficult for the German coach to choose substitutions according to the match. In reality, the Reds' expected starting lineup is still very strong.
They still have Alisson Becker in goal, a pair of quality full-backs, smart midfielders and the ability to bridge, and an attack trio that even with Raphael Varane's support, David de Gea has to shake.
Can Bruno Fernadez, Fred, Eriksen compete for the ball ownership? It is very difficult, because Man United players do not have the top technique in keeping the ball, coordinating to escape pressing. They only try to direct the ball towards the goal as quickly as possible, so they are easily caught, leading to a decline in spirit.
Liverpool are still like that, with enough enthusiasm to move up to the opponent's half. Having won 5-0 at Old Trafford last season, they also have a very important mental element.
Man United will also play with their spirit, but that is only when the net has not been shaken. Once they have let their opponents score, Old Trafford is determined to be defeated once again...
D'OAN: Man United 0-2 Liverpool
