The next match between Liverpool and Manchester United—a rivalry of epic ramifications—is almost upon fans of both clubs. Liverpool vs Manchester United is traditionally the most storied fixture in English football. These two great rivals are the most successful of English clubs both domestically and in European competition. Liverpool holds the edge in wins in European competition over their Lancashire rivals, while United trump all competitors in domestic top-flight titles. It is amazing, given this intense rivalry, that the coming Europa League fixtures are the first competitive matches between the clubs in European competition.
Manchester United have never won the UEFA Cup/Europa League while Liverpool can boast of three wins in the competition with the last coming in a pulsating final against the Spanish side Alaves in 2001. Louis van Gaal’s Manchester United sides have held sway in recent seasons domestically against Liverpool, and the chance for revenge over recent league defeats is not lost on the Liverpool support.
Van Gaal has a terrific record in European competition, stretching back to his exciting Ajax side of the mid-1990s. Jurgen Klopp has enjoyed limited success in comparison to Louis Van Gaal when it comes to European club competition. Klopp’s finest moment in European competition so far occurred when he led Dortmund to the Champions League final in 2013.
This Europa League clash represents a massive opportunity and is of huge importance for both clubs. Securing a Champions League place by winning the Europa League may be the best route for either club to get back into Europe’s premier club competition next season. Historical meetings aside, the two-legged affair at Anfield and Old Trafford presents as the marquee tie of the round.
Goals win games, and the recent goal scoring form of Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino could prove pivotal. Both defences are far from impregnable but United do have the edge in the goalkeeping stakes with the impressive David De Gea as their shot-stopper. The tie could be won or lost in the midfield area. Emre Can and Jordan Henderson must dominate in order to ensure that Liverpool advance. It promises to be a mouth-watering clash and for Liverpool fans, there will be no greater satisfaction than to knock Manchester United out of the competition.
