Arne Slot continued his flawless start as Liverpool’s head coach with a commanding 3-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Luis Diaz opened the scoring with a header 10 minutes before halftime, after Trent Alexander-Arnold’s earlier goal was ruled out by VAR due to an offside call against Mohamed Salah.
Diaz then added a second goal seven minutes later with a low finish from a precise pass by Salah.
Salah himself scored after the break, marking his 12th Premier League goal against United, as Liverpool capitalized on another mistake from United’s midfield to enhance their lead.
The win places Liverpool alongside Manchester City as the only teams with a perfect record after three matches, while Manchester United, with just three points, find themselves in 14th place as they head into the international break.
Match Summary
Liverpool’s early threat came from Diogo Jota, whose effort missed the target. They believed they had taken the lead in the sixth minute when Alexander-Arnold scored, but the goal was disallowed by VAR for an offside on Salah.
Liverpool took the lead in the 35th minute when Casemiro’s poor pass was intercepted, leading to Salah crossing for Diaz to score. Diaz doubled the advantage just before halftime with another assist from Salah, after Casemiro was dispossessed.
Salah sealed the win with a goal in the 56th minute following a mistake by Kobbie Mainoo, making it a difficult day for United. Joshua Zirkzee missed United’s best chances in the final moments.
Midfield Woes for United
Erik ten Hag’s tenure has seen criticism over United’s tactical identity, and their midfield was again exposed by Liverpool. Zirkzee and Bruno Fernandes attempted to press, but Liverpool’s defense, led by Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, moved the ball upfield with ease.
Casemiro’s poor performance, including mistakes leading to both of Diaz’s goals, led to his substitution at halftime. Mainoo’s mistake allowed Salah to score, further highlighting United’s midfield struggles.
Slot’s Successful Strategy
Slot’s tenure has thus far been impressive, and Liverpool’s performance at Old Trafford was a significant test that he passed with distinction. His style of expansive and dynamic football builds on Jurgen Klopp’s previous success.
Despite a quiet transfer window, Ryan Gravenberch has shown promise in the defensive midfield role. Diaz and Salah were standout performers, with Salah becoming the second player to score 10 away goals in the Premier League.
Liverpool’s strong start under Slot suggests continued dominance in this historic fixture, potentially causing concern in Manchester.
