When Manchester United took on Liverpool in game week 4 of the 2022/2023 Premier League season at Old Trafford, the eventual scoreline was not what most football fans were anticipating.

Although Manchester United played a better game on the night, their form heading into the United vs Liverpool game was one of the worst starts to the league ever witnessed by the club. Manchester United had lost the opening game of the season to Brighton. They were bashed by Brentford in a 4-0 defeat that once again brought some of United’s long-standing problems to the fore.

#Boycottoldtrafford started trending ahead of the Liverpool game. Many United fans expressed their utter disappointment in the Glazer’s handling of the club. Calls for adequate reinforcements also followed. In response to these agitations, Manchester United signed Casemiro from Real Madrid for about £60 million. The club also began inquiring about other players who could strengthen the squad.

What Did Manchester United Do Right Against Liverpool?

Since winning against Liverpool, Manchester United has turned around their poor start of the season brilliantly. United now have 3 consecutive wins out of 5. They have also climbed up to the 5th position on the table. Manchester United’s next game is against Arsenal. Erik Ten Hag will be hopeful that his players can use their performance against Liverpool as extra motivation heading into this one.

Manchester United approached the Liverpool game as the underdogs. Erik Ten Hag and his players knew that they had to give a solid response that night. 

Liverpool had defeated United for an aggregate of 9-0 over two fixtures last season. To prevent a repeat, Erik Ten Hag made some crucial decisions. These important decisions include:

• Dropping Underperformers

Heading into the game against Liverpool, Erik Ten Hag’s first correct action was dropping Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Fred, and Cristiano Ronaldo to the bench. He replaced them with Raphael Varane, Tyrell Malacia, Scott Mctominay, and Anthony Elanga. The replacement immediately injected youthful energy and pace into the squad.

• Quick Fiery Push

Manchester United did not settle for the underdog tag. Erik Ten Hag’s side began the match with high intensity from the whistle blast and took the game head-on to Liverpool. This unsettled Liverpool as United pressed high and launched rapid counterattacks using the pace, dribbling ability, and skills of Elanga, Rashford, and Sancho, who played up front.

• Close-Knit Defending

United attacked with high intensity up the pitch. They also defended with the same intensity. The midfield players dropped into defense with each Liverpool attack, while the wide players also supported on the wings. Manchester United also successfully broke out from defense into attack.

Conclusion

These interesting changes were absent in Manchester United’s opening lackluster performances. The players have seen the difference between the two playing styles and have pressed on to secure more victories since winning against Liverpool.

The game at Arsenal is another tough test for Manchester United. Arsenal is the current high-flying league leader with a 100% record. Manchester United will look to maintain their fine form, and victory over Arsenal will further help rejuvenate the players and delight the fans.