Man United vs Liverpool Live Score: Isak, Salah Out; Sesko Starts – Arch-Rivals meet at Old Traffordnewsline24

The iconic rivalry returns to Old Trafford on Sunday, May 3, 2026 (kick-off 3:30pm BST), as third-placed Manchester United host fourth-placed Liverpool in a high-stakes Premier League clash. With both sides battling for Champions League qualification, this Matchweek 35 encounter carries huge significance late in the season.

United sit on 61 points from 34 games, three clear of Liverpool (58 points). A win or draw would virtually secure Michael Carrick’s side a top-five finish and a return to Europe’s elite competition. Liverpool need a victory to draw level and keep their hopes alive, though their recent inconsistency makes the task daunting.

Form and Recent Encounters

United enter in solid home form, unbeaten in their last five Old Trafford outings and chasing a third straight league win. They already claimed a 2-1 victory at Anfield earlier this season, eyeing a first league double over Liverpool in a decade. Liverpool arrive on the back of three consecutive wins but have struggled for consistency, with defensive vulnerabilities exposed in recent weeks.

Head-to-head history remains fiercely balanced overall (United lead 92-82 across all meetings), but recent derbies deliver goals and drama. Over 2.5 goals have featured in United’s last eight home games against Liverpool.

Team News and Key Players

Manchester United will miss suspended Lisandro Martínez and injured Matthijs de Ligt, but welcome back Leny Yoro and potentially Matheus Cunha up front. Bruno Fernandes, one assist shy of a Premier League record, remains the creative heartbeat alongside Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro in midfield. Harry Maguire and the full-backs must handle Liverpool’s pace.

Liverpool, managed by Arne Slot, face significant absences: Mohamed Salah (muscle injury), Alexander Isak (groin), Hugo Ekitike (Achilles), with doubts over goalkeeper Alisson. Florian Wirtz could lead the line on his birthday, supported by midfielders like Ryan Gravenberch. The Reds’ away record offers hope, but missing key attackers weakens their cutting edge.