Say what you will about Manchester United versus Liverpool coming up on screens today, or how underwhelming the Red Devils have been based on their recent form, but if anyone thinks Erik ten Hag’s side are going to roll over at Old Trafford because Liverpool have more to lose than them, they are in for a cruel awakening.
It is true that Manchester United in their quest to return to the summit of English football, have failed so miserably at achieving that, but the Red Devils today, have a lot more to lose than their Merseyside visitors whose journey to Old Trafford hinges on stealing all 3 points to climb back to top spot in the league.
The weeks and the weekends that have come and gone, have been spent debating on the outcome of the premier league and the the eventual winners of the title might be, but what narratives have failed to consider is how much of a dark horse Manchester United are in determining the outcome come end of the season.
This game could be more about Erik ten Hag’s record versus Jurgen Klopp than it is about Liverpool vs. Manchester United…
The Old Trafford side have 2 very important games against two of the three sides chasing after the league title, 2-games that could be a plot twist to the title race; win both games, the Red Devils redeem their image this season in English football.
Though it may not be the same as ultimately mounting a top 4 or European charge, but glory of depriving two sides who have spent their entire season hunting for the league crown, will present Manchester United fans perhaps a resolution to a season that has not only been disastrous but a nightmare on all fronts.
Defeating both Liverpool or Arsenal to hand Manchester City the premier league title, though may be choosing between the devil and the deep sea scenario, but the silver lining of history being talked about them years to come about being the kingmakers of the 2023/24 season could be an end to an era Erik ten Hag promised when he was announced manager of the club.
It may not be the era ending outcome the Dutchman had predicted, but if rumors of him being removed by INEOS come end of the season as Manchester United boss, then it would be the perfect end for the Erik ten Hag era.
The narrative so far haven’t failed at analyzing the negative statistical metrics that Erik ten Hag’s management of Manchester United has brought on the Red Devils this season, but what if those statistical metrics extended to two clubs who in historic years have emerged as United’s traditional foes?
Ten Hag will not only have made a statement in his 2 seasons at Old Trafford but as awkward as it would be, the Dutchman will mark himself as a cult figure at Stretford end. It isn’t the same as winning a title or a trophy, but words that will be sung to Liverpool and Arsenal for seasons to come.
But that is ignoring the fact that Manchester United could under Erik ten Hag make it into another cup final again, and possibly win it this time, surprisingly after eliminating Liverpool from the same competition.
It will not only make it double blow to their arch nemesis but another record for the Dutchman if he can in back to back games at Old Trafford, remain undefeated to outgoing Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp.
Liverpool will feel they have more to lose if they fail to beat Manchester United, but the Red Devils have nothing to gain but their identity and glory, which to them is a lot more than what the North West counterpart are chasing for. But will the Reds allow it? Will Jurgen Klopp allow it?
