Team News: Nine players could miss Liverpool vs Man United

Liverpool vs Man United Selection Headache Looms

Liverpool and Man United are preparing for one of the Premier League’s biggest fixtures, yet both managers could be scrambling for solutions as injuries continue to pile up. Sunday’s 16:30 BST showdown at Anfield, live on Sky Sports, arrives at a crucial time for Liverpool after a frustrating run of two league defeats and a Champions League loss to Galatasaray. The pressure is growing for Ruben Amorim, whose side are still searching for their first away win of the campaign and sit 10th in the league table.

Fortress Anfield Under Scrutiny

Despite recent setbacks, Liverpool remain formidable at home. They are unbeaten in their last 20 Premier League games at Anfield, winning 16 and drawing four. Man United have not enjoyed success on Merseyside for some time, failing to win any of their past nine league visits. Yet this iconic fixture rarely follows the script and both sides arrive with uncertainty hanging over key names.

Confirmed Absentees

Alisson Becker will not be available after picking up a hamstring strain in the Champions League defeat to Galatasaray. Although he has been seen doing light work at the AXA Training Centre, medical staff have ruled him out until after the November international break.

Stefan Bajcetic is also sidelined as he continues his recovery from hamstring surgery conducted in May. Photos suggest he is now stepping up to individual ball work, but Liverpool remain cautious and no return date has been confirmed.

For Man United, Lisandro Martinez has returned to full training following ACL surgery in February, however he is expected to sit this one out as the medical team gradually reintegrate him.

Major Doubts on Both Sides

Ibrahima Konate withdrew from France duty after sustaining a right quadriceps injury in the 2-1 loss to Chelsea. Further assessment is required before a decision is made on his involvement.

Wataru Endo is also touch and go after being ruled out of Japan duty with a hamstring complaint. Their manager described the setback as precautionary, though Liverpool will need clarity before final preparations.

Ryan Gravenberch provided a reassuring update following his withdrawal at half time for the Netherlands against Finland.

“It had a bit to do with fitness. The season is long, so it was precautionary,” he explained.

“I feel good about myself and I have the confidence of the trainer.”

He is expected to return to training, with Liverpool’s medical staff set to determine his status ahead of the derby.

Man United have their own uncertainties. Noussair Mazraoui has not featured since September 20 due to an unspecified knock. Despite being called up to the Moroccan national side and appearing in training sessions, he did not play. Amorim is expected to offer clarity in his pre-match conference.

Teenage defender Ayden Heaven will also be monitored after taking a knock in England Under-20s’ defeat to Switzerland. He completed the first half before being withdrawn, with initial reports suggesting the issue is minor.