Liverpool continued their flawless run under new manager Arne Slot, delivering a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The win, Liverpool’s third consecutive Premier League triumph without conceding a goal, puts renewed pressure on United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, who has come under scrutiny despite securing a new contract after last season’s FA Cup victory.
From the outset, Liverpool were in a different class, with their superiority evident as early as the 35th minute when Luis Diaz opened the scoring by heading in Mohamed Salah’s cross. Just seven minutes later, Diaz doubled the lead, converting another assist from Salah after a costly mistake by United’s Casemiro, who endured a torrid first half before being substituted at the break.
Salah himself added the third goal in the 56th minute, capitalizing on a pass from Dominik Szoboszlai to seal a dominant performance. Despite some fleeting chances for United, particularly through Joshua Zirkzee, Liverpool’s defense remained resolute, with goalkeeper Alisson making crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet.
For Ten Hag, the result is a significant blow, especially after a shaky start to the season that included a narrow win against Fulham and a loss to Brighton. The defeat was made worse by jeers from United fans and an uncomfortable afternoon for the club’s ownership, who watched the match from the directors’ box.
United’s struggles were compounded by the absence of key players, including new signing Manuel Ugarte and the injured Leny Yoro, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw, and Rasmus Hojlund. However, these absences do little to excuse the lackluster performance, with Casemiro’s poor display symbolizing the team’s wider issues.
In contrast, Slot’s Liverpool showcased a controlled and measured approach, building on their earlier victories against Ipswich Town and Brentford. The win at Old Trafford, a venue where they faltered in key matches last season, underscores the Dutch manager’s evolving influence at the club.
While Salah continued his habit of tormenting United, this match was about more than just individual brilliance. It was a statement of intent from Liverpool under Slot, who is molding the team into a more disciplined and controlled unit without losing their attacking edge.
As Slot modestly acknowledged the traveling Liverpool fans at the final whistle, their resounding cheers suggested that the new manager has already won over their hearts. The victory not only maintains Liverpool’s perfect start but also signals that Slot’s era at Anfield is gathering momentum.
Reported By BBC Sports.
