Manchester United injury news latest ahead of Liverpool clash

Manchester United head to Anfield with key defensive absences: Lisandro Martínez still sidelined, Noussair Mazraoui doubtful and youngster Ayden Heaven a fitness concern. Punters may favour backing Liverpool to win, and consider Liverpool + both teams to score given United’s defensive uncertainty.

Amorim’s Year at Old Trafford: Pressure Peaks Ahead of Anfield

Ruben Amorim approaches his one-year mark at Old Trafford under mounting scrutiny. His commitment to a 3-4-3 system and a mixed run of results have intensified questions about tactics and team selection ahead of a crucial trip to face reigning champions Liverpool at Anfield. The international break offered some breathing room, but a handful of injury concerns mean selection headaches remain.

Squad fitness report: Key names and availability

Amorim arrives with a largely intact squad after the break, but three defensive issues could shape his XI and game plan. Each absence or doubt has tangible tactical implications for how United will cope with Liverpool’s front line.

Lisandro Martínez — Expected return timeline and impact

Martínez has been out since February with a cruciate ligament injury and has been sorely missed in the centre of defence. The Argentine’s leadership and aggressive style were singled out by the manager as irreplaceable qualities. He has resumed grass training and could return later this month, but he is not expected to be available for the Anfield trip. His continued absence forces alterations to United’s defensive setup and likely keeps Amorim from fielding his preferred backline.

Noussair Mazraoui — Thigh issue leaves selection uncertain

Mazraoui missed recent league games due to a thigh injury and was also absent from Morocco’s internationals. Amorim previously indicated the full-back wouldn’t be back until after the international break, suggesting a possible return for the Liverpool fixture, but the situation remains to be confirmed at the manager’s next press update. If unavailable, United will need to adjust wing-back options and potentially sacrifice attacking width.

Ayden Heaven — Young prospect faces short-term doubt

Nineteen-year-old Ayden Heaven, who has been included in matchday squads this season and made a brief appearance against Fulham, picked up a knock one minute into an England U20s fixture. England U20s’ coach described the issue as not thought to be serious but worth monitoring. Heaven looks doubtful for Anfield, reducing the manager’s defensive depth and limiting emergency youth options.

Tactical and betting implications

United’s defensive absences heighten tactical uncertainty. Without Martínez, United may lack the aggressive centre-back presence that helps repel high-intensity attacks; a doubtful Mazraoui could blunt amplitude down the right. For punters, that suggests Liverpool are the sensible match-winner pick, while markets like both teams to score or Liverpool to win with both teams scoring could offer value given United’s defensive instability and intermittent attacking threat.

What to watch before kickoff

Team news on Mazraoui and any late updates on Heaven will be decisive for United’s XI. Watch whether Amorim persists with his 3-4-3 shape or tweaks personnel to shore up the back. Early injury confirmations and the manager’s press comments will be key indicators of the match plan.

Man Utd will go into the Premier League clash with Liverpool in good shape after the international break

Givemesport