Published on 18.12.2023
Liverpool squandered the opportunity to reclaim their position at the top of the Premier League after a goalless draw against Manchester United at Anfield.
Despite being heavily favored to win, Jurgen Klopp’s team faced a formidable United side that proved difficult to break down. In fact, Erik ten Hag’s team had a chance to snatch victory on the counter-attack, but Alisson’s save denied Rasmus Hojlund in the second half.
"He needs a reminder he's playing for a club that's won one title in 30 odd years."
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 18, 2023
Roy Keane felt Virgil van Dijk was 'arrogant' an 'disrespecting Manchester United' in his interview after the game🔊pic.twitter.com/KWDdeXO838
Liverpool came closest to scoring through Virgil van Dijk’s header in the first half and Luis Diaz’s header after halftime. However, even with Diogo Dalot receiving a red card in stoppage time, it did not provide any advantage for Liverpool.
As a result of this draw, Liverpool now drop down to second place in the Premier League table and see their perfect home record come to an end. On the other hand, United currently sit seventh in the standings – an outcome that Ten Hag finds encouraging.
After the match, Klopp expressed his admiration for the exceptional intensity displayed by his Liverpool team. He emphasized that their counter-pressing was top-notch, but he pointed out that the lack of composure in making the right decisions after winning back possession was a concern.
According to Klopp, “The decisiveness was not there today, not calm enough, too much of a rush. When it is that intense, to make the right, calm decisions in the moment is another step.”
Ten Hag also shared his thoughts on his team’s performance and their determination to fight for him and Manchester United. Despite Liverpool’s dominance in terms of possession at Anfield, Ten Hag argued that his side had more clear-cut opportunities during open play.
“We should have taken advantage of our ball possession and hurt our opponents more,” said Ten Hag. “But we must acknowledge that we had better chances with Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund.”
One particular player who received praise from both managers was teenager Kobbie Mainoo in midfield. Both Klopp and Ten Hag agreed on Mainoo’s ability to make an impact despite his young age.
“When you are good enough you are old enough,” stated Ten Hag. “He proves that. We can derive even more benefits from him as he demonstrates great scanning abilities and quick decision-making skills on the field. He has what it takes to really trouble opposing teams.”
