With four games remaining in the season, matchweek 35 marks a critical juncture. Liverpool travel to Old Trafford to face Manchester United, with both sides vying for third place in the Premier League table. United currently sit third, three points ahead of Liverpool, though both teams have won the same number of matches. Injuries have plagued both squads, but the final fixtures will determine which club claims the 'best of the rest' prize behind the title contenders.
According to statistics from SofaScore, the fierce northwest rivals are closely matched, with five Liverpool players and six Manchester United stars making the combined XI ahead of Sunday's showdown.
Goalkeeper: Senne Lammens (Manchester United)
SofaScore rating: 6.97/10
With Alisson and Mamardashvili injured, the logical choice is Manchester United's Senne Lammens. The Belgian goalkeeper ranks above Liverpool's Freddie Woodman. Although Woodman impressed on his league debut against Crystal Palace, Lammens' experience gives him the edge. He has recorded six clean sheets this season for United and, according to United reporter Nathan Salt, is the value signing of the season.
Centre Back: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
SofaScore rating: 7.26/10
Virgil van Dijk has delivered an outstanding defensive performance throughout the season. His heat map shows dominance across the left side of the pitch, and he has completed 96% of his passes in his own half. Van Dijk has featured in all 34 league games, playing 90 minutes or more in each, as well as in Liverpool's Champions League matches, accumulating at least 4,140 minutes across both campaigns.
Right Centre Back: Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool)
SofaScore rating: 7.12/10
Although Konate has had a quieter season by his standards, his consistency is notable. The 26-year-old is reportedly close to signing a contract extension with Liverpool. He has made 1,936 passes with an 89% completion rate in the league, winning 201 duels (112 aerial), along with 50 tackles, 27 interceptions, and 22 blocks.
Left Centre Back: Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
SofaScore rating: 6.67/10
Luke Shaw, a 12-year Manchester United veteran, has started every league game this season. Despite a career marred by injuries, he has won 152 duels. Shaw maintains a strong position in the back three and is the only United defender in the lineup. He often advances up the pitch to support teammates, acting as a squad leader.
CDM: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)
SofaScore rating: 7.07/10
Ryan Gravenberch has progressed quietly, shifting from an attacking role to a deeper midfield position under manager Arne Slot. The 23-year-old is versatile, excelling both offensively and defensively. His 6ft 2in frame makes him physically imposing when needed.
CDM: Casemiro (Manchester United)
SofaScore rating: 7.22/10
Casemiro was named Premier League Player of the Week for matchweek 34, his second such award this season. He can turn into an attacking threat from long balls and set pieces, as demonstrated against Brentford on 27 April.
Attacking Midfield: Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)
SofaScore rating: 7.18/10
Szoboszlai has completed 88% of his 1,988 passes over 2,873 minutes, averaging over 62 passes per game. He has scored five goals and provided four assists. His top speed in the Premier League is 36.76 km/h, making him the third fastest player in the league and the fastest home player at Anfield.
Attacking Midfield: Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
SofaScore rating: 7.55/10
Bruno Fernandes is the highest-rated player in this XI. In March 2026, he broke Manchester United's record for most assists in a single season (16), surpassing David Beckham's 15 in 1999-2000. He also became the club's second fastest player to reach 200 goal contributions, with 104 goals and 96 assists since joining in January 2020.
Forward: Matheus Cunha (Manchester United)
SofaScore rating: 7.05/10
Matheus Cunha, a self-described 'maverick,' is an instinctive centre forward. He has been named in the Premier League Team of the Week twice this season. Since joining United in the summer, he has scored eight goals, following a 15-goal season with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Left Wing: Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)
SofaScore rating: 6.95/10
Cody Gakpo has found his form under Arne Slot. He operates on the left wing, often drifting to the top-left corner of the pitch. He uses his right foot to cut inside and can move to a centre-forward position when needed. Gakpo has contributed 11 goals and assists combined this season.
Right Wing: Amad Diallo (Manchester United)
SofaScore rating: 6.92/10
Amad Diallo recently returned from the Africa Cup of Nations with Côte d'Ivoire. In 28 appearances, he has scored two goals and provided three assists. The 23-year-old excels on the right wing, using his dribbling ability to carry the ball over 153 metres. He could exploit Liverpool's midfield if not carefully marked.
Both Liverpool and Manchester United possess formidable sides, but only one will prevail. Injuries have depleted squad depth, with United marginally more affected. Sunday's clash is a six-pointer for third place, and the outcome remains uncertain.
