Manchester United vs Liverpool: Combined XI | Premier League 2021-22

Manchester United vs Liverpool - Premier League
Manchester United vs Liverpool - Premier League

Centre-back: Virgil Van Dijk (Liverpool)

Virgil Van Dijk has returned strong from a long injury spell.
Virgil Van Dijk has returned strong from a long injury spell.

Liverpool's Virgil Van Dijk is a no-brainer in this hypothetical combined XI. The Dutchman is one of the best central defenders in the world at the moment. Apart from his impeccable reading of the game, timely challenges and aerial supremacy, his distribution skills make him a great asset to Jurgen Klopp.

After returning from a long injury layoff, Van Dijk has played all league games for Liverpool this season. That is a sign of just how important he is in the Liverpool squad.

He also has an assist to his name, and is averaging 3.6 aerial duel wins per 90. Van Dijk is very vocal at the back, and commands the entire defence with ease. So he could play a huge role in the outcome of this game against Manchester United.


Centre-Back: Joel Matip (Liverpool)

Joel Matip has emerged as one of the best players for Liverpool this season.
Joel Matip has emerged as one of the best players for Liverpool this season.

Liverpool might be making waves in Europe with their fast-paced and effective attacking football. But it is their stability at the back that allows them to be so potent in attack.

Joel Matip has been one of the defensive players whose performances have gone under the radar. That's because Van Dijk has taken most of the plaudits for Liverpool's fabulous defensive outings. This season, Matip has played seven of eight Premier League games for Liverpool, and has posted better numbers than his Dutch teammate.

Klopp signed up Matip on a free transfer, which remains one of the best pieces of transfer done by him for the Merseyside club.


Right-back: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)

Trent Alexander Arnold missed the Ballon d'Or shortlist this year.
Trent Alexander Arnold missed the Ballon d'Or shortlist this year.

There are a lot of players who would've liked to achieve what Trent Alexander-Arnold has achieved at just 23. He has played a pivotal role in the Champions League and Premier League for the Reds, and continues to operate on a world-class level.

This season, he has featured in six games, missing two because of injuries, and has picked up two assists. His marauding runs down the right flank could prove to be a nuisance for Manchester United.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka deserves a mention here, as he has been solid, at least defensively, and attempts 2.3 tackles a game. But he is not at top form currently, so he misses out on a place in this hypothetical combined XI here.

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