Liverpool vs. Manchester United: 5 key matchups

FILE PHOTO (EDITORS NOTE: GRADIENT ADDED - COMPOSITE OF TWO IMAGES - Image numbers (L) 630799888 and 619016290) In this composite image a comparision has been made between Jose Mourinho, Manager of Manchester United and Jurgen Klopp, Manager of Liverpool. Manchester United and Liverpool meet in a Premier League match on October 14,2017 at Anfield in Liverpool. ***LEFT IMAGE*** STRATFORD, ENGLAND - JANUARY 02: Jose Mourinho, Manager of Manchester United looks on during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Manchester United at London Stadium on January 2, 2017 in Stratford, England. (Photo by Ian Walton/Getty Images) ***RIGHT IMAGE*** LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 29: Jurgen Klopp, Manager of Liverpool looks on during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool at Selhurst Park on October 29, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Ian Walton/Getty Images) /

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4. Bailly vs. Matip

The defensive problems that plagued Manchester United last season are all but gone. United is tied with rivals Manchester City for fewest goals allowed this season, and that is in part due to Eric Bailly’s play. The big Ivorian has really tuned his game well and is a for at the back. Though he still has a mental lapse every now and then, Bailly is really growing into his role in defense for United and could very well be a mainstay in the future.

Liverpool’s signing of Joel Matip on a free transfer is continually proving to be a work of genius by the club. The ex-Schalke defender is a perfect mix of experience and youth, able to sniff out danger and protect his keeper. The Liverpool defense has always been under fire, but Matip has been one of the main constants in the backline that has kept his side in the match.

The two defenders will be instrumental in keeping the scoreline from getting out of hand. Both teams are capable of scoring multiple goals on their day, so Bailly and Matip will be called upon throughout the contest to shut down the opposition. They may not grab the headlines after the match, but a solid performance from either man will certainly sway the decision in their team’s favor.

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