The Premier League's return from the November international break promises a significant shift in momentum, with two of England's most storied clubs poised to capitalise on a favourable turn of events.
A Welcome Respite for Struggling Giants
Following a challenging period for both teams, Liverpool and Manchester United are set to resume their campaigns with what analysts are calling the most forgiving run of fixtures in the entire division. This comes as a welcome relief after mixed results before the hiatus.
United were held to a 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, while Liverpool suffered a demoralising 3-0 defeat to title rivals Manchester City. These results have left the two clubs separated by just a single point in the table after 11 matches, with both desperate to return to winning ways.
Analysing the Advantageous Fixture List
A recent analysis by Sky Sports has revealed the extent of their upcoming opportunity. The report concludes that Manchester United have the easiest run of matches in the league over the coming weeks, with Liverpool boasting the second-most straightforward schedule.
For Manchester United, the path forward involves facing teams currently positioned in the lower half of the table:
- 13th-placed Everton
- 10th-placed Crystal Palace
- 18th-placed West Ham
- 20th-placed Wolves
- Ninth-placed Bournemouth
Liverpool's fixture list is marginally tougher but still highly favourable, pitting them against:
- 19th-placed Nottingham Forest
- 18th-placed West Ham
- Fourth-placed Sunderland
- 16th-placed Leeds United
- 11th-placed Brighton
The Wider Premier League Context
This fixture advantage arrives at a critical juncture in the season. Arsenal currently leads the Premier League table, holding a seven-point cushion over United in seventh and an eight-point lead over Liverpool in eighth. Meanwhile, Manchester City sit in second, four points behind the Gunners.
Liverpool's title aspirations have taken a severe hit in recent weeks, with the team suffering five defeats in their last six Premier League outings. United, in contrast, have climbed to seventh and will be aiming to secure a Champions League qualification spot.
The immediate focus for both managers will be on the upcoming weekend. Liverpool host 19th-placed Nottingham Forest at Anfield, which will see former Everton manager Sean Dyche return to Merseyside. United host Everton on Monday Night Football, a match that marks former Red Devils boss David Moyes's return to the Old Trafford dugout as an opponent.
Following the heavy loss to City, Liverpool manager Arne Slot was pragmatic, stating, "The last thing I should speak about is the title race. We have to focus on getting results. Result after result after result before we can even think about that. The reality is that we are eighth." He emphasised that the best way to judge the table is after 38 games, signalling a long-term view that this favourable fixture list could greatly support.
