Match Preview: MUFC vs Liverpool (2022 pre-season)

Another pre-season starts again today, with MUFC opening their pre-season with a game vs Liverpool.

The dawning of a new era begins. Erik ten Hag has had a few weeks of training with this Manchester United squad and now, we get our first look at the Red Devils in action under the Dutchman.

Kick-off time: 14:00 BST
Venue: Rajamangala Stadium
Where to watch: MUTV.

As is always the case, pre-season is an intriguing time. That interest has heightened as we’re all keen to see what Ten Hag has done with this United squad. Do we expect a different play style? Different personnel? I believe so, but seeing it all unfold is pretty exciting.

In these games, you’ll always see wholesale changes made at half-time, with Ten Hag looking to get a closer look at every single squad member.

Team News

In terms of availability, Ten Hag will have most of his 31-man squad at his disposal. The only semi-serious concern is about Harry Maguire, who picked up a slight injury in training at some point.

Raphael Varane, Axel Tuanzebe, James Garner and Scott McTominay are undertaking gym work as part of their bespoke programmes. It’s unclear as to whether these guys are ready to go.

If you want a full rundown of our predicted MUFC XI vs Liverpool, click here.

Setting the standard

There’s no better benchmark than Liverpool. I know pre-season is more about building up the fitness levels and trying to play how Ten Hag wants. Though what better barometer to see how far we’ve come than a game against Jurgen Klopp’s men?

First and foremost, it’s about matching their intensity, as quality-wise, there’s very little difference between the two teams. If United play to their capabilities, I genuinely believe they can beat anyone on their day. It’s all about having the right attitude.

Who to watch out for

I’m hoping to see a fresh, confident and fully-firing Marcus Rashford during this tour. The Englishman has been impressing coaching staff and his teammates in training, so let’s see if that translates.

Donny van de Beek is another one who’ll be looking to make a positive impression following a disastrous start to his Red Devils career. New signing Tyrell Malacia is another I’m keen to see in action.

Youngsters James Garner and Alejandro Garnacho are also worth keeping an eye on. These guys will be hoping to force their way into Ten Hag’s first-team plans over the next few weeks.

Betting information

Manchester United @ 9/4

Draw @ 13/5

Liverpool @ 10/11

Some sort of high-scoring draw feels like a good bet here, as mistakes will be made due to adjusting to a new system. I like the look of a 2-2 result, with both teams possessing plenty of firepower.

As you’d expect, Liverpool are the overwhelming favourites here, albeit it a ‘friendly’ fixture. I can promise you there’s nothing friendly about this rivalry…

Let’s go!

Don’t forget to leave your score predictions in the comment box below.

Follow Old Trafford Faithful on Twitter for live, in-game updates of MUFC vs Liverpool.

About Jordan Street 19808 Articles
Mancunian. Red through and through. Season Ticket holder block E332.

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