Man United Match Preview: Amorim Faces Key Decisions Ahead of Prem Clash at AnfieldAs Manchester United prepare for their latest Prem Clash against Liverpool, attention turns to the key selection deci...
Man United Match Preview: Amorim Faces Key Decisions Ahead of Prem Clash at Anfield
As Manchester United prepare for their latest Prem Clash against Liverpool, attention turns to the key selection decisions awaiting Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese head coach, who continues to settle into life at Old Trafford, faces both promise and uncertainty in his squad ahead of Sunday’s trip to Anfield.
Lammens Stakes His Claim for Starting Role
Manchester United’s new goalkeeper Senne Lammens has made quite the first impression. The £18.2 million Deadline Day signing from Royal Antwerp enjoyed a dream debut before the international break, helping his side to a 2-0 win over Sunderland with a commanding performance between the posts.
Supporters quickly took to the Belgian, chanting “Are you [Peter] Schmeichel in disguise?” as his confident display evoked memories of Old Trafford’s great goalkeeping past. Amorim acknowledged the excitement around his young stopper but urged caution in his assessment.
“Nothing is impossible, you have to prove you can start every week. It is possible he can play. He is not Schmeichel yet, he is a young guy with talent and the fans liked it,” Amorim said.
Lammens appears likely to retain his place against Liverpool, keeping Altay Bayindir on the bench for now. His distribution and composure will be key in a game where United can expect to come under intense pressure.
Photo IMAGO
Injuries Shape Amorim’s Options
Amorim’s plans have been complicated by injuries in defence. Lisandro Martinez remains sidelined, though there is hope the Argentine will return to full training soon. The United boss confirmed that “Licha [Martinez] is near, but almost returning to the trainings with the team.”
There is also uncertainty over Noussair Mazraoui, who picked up a knock and faces a late fitness test. Young defender Ayden Heaven, who impressed with England’s Under-20s, is another doubt after being forced off in his recent international outing.
In midfield, Casemiro and Matheus Cunha will be assessed after late returns from international duty with Brazil. Their involvement could prove crucial in providing experience and control against Liverpool’s dynamic midfield.
Fernandes Leads United into Fierce Encounter
Captain Bruno Fernandes is set to feature after being granted an extra day off training following his 62-minute appearance for Portugal earlier in the week. Amorim confirmed that the rest of his international contingent are ready for selection.
“Mazraoui, I don’t know. The rest of the guys, the national team [players], they are ready. But, if you saw the games, some players play in Japan, so we need to be careful, to give more time,” said Amorim.
“Diogo [Dalot] didn’t play the last game [with Portugal], he was here [yesterday]. Bruno played 62 minutes, we gave [him] one more day [to recover]. We try to balance everything to have everyone ready. But they are ready, the guys are returning from national teams. They are ready to play.”
Predicted Man United XI for Anfield
Amorim is expected to maintain his 3-4-2-1 formation, which has offered defensive stability and attacking width.
Predicted XI: Lammens; Yoro, De Ligt, Shaw; Dalot, Ugarte, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo, Amad; Sesko.
Injured: MartinezDoubts: Mazraoui, Heaven
Kick-off is set for 4:30pm BST on Sunday, 19 October 2025, with the match broadcast live on Sky Sports.
For Amorim, this represents a defining early test. A strong performance at Anfield could solidify his tactical identity at United and further endear him to supporters who have begun to sense cautious optimism once again.
Category: General Sports