Old Trafford braces for an explosive FA Cup quarter-final showdown as Manchester United prepare to host bitter rivals Liverpool in what promises to be a seismic clash between English football's titans.
Ten Hag's Selection Bombshell
In a stunning development that will send shockwaves through the Red Devils faithful, Erik ten Hag has confirmed that first-choice goalkeeper Andre Onana will miss this epic encounter. The Cameroonian shot-stopper has been ruled out due to injury, handing a crucial opportunity to backup keeper Altay Bayindir.
The defensive woes continue for United as Harry Maguire's availability remains shrouded in uncertainty following his abrupt withdrawal from England duty. This leaves Ten Hag with a defensive headache of monumental proportions against Liverpool's formidable attacking arsenal.
Liverpool's Injury Crisis Deepens
Jurgen Klopp faces his own selection nightmare as Liverpool's treatment room continues to fill at an alarming rate. The Reds will be without several key figures including:
- Ibrahima Konate - ruled out with muscle fatigue
- Curtis Jones - sidelined with an ankle issue
- Diogo Jota - facing extended absence with knee problems
- Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alisson Becker - long-term casualties
- Ryan Gravenberch - doubtful after recent injury
Potential Lineup Shakeups
Manchester United's predicted XI: Bayindir; Dalot, Varane, Evans, Lindelof; Mainoo, Casemiro; Garnacho, McTominay, Rashford; Hojlund
Liverpool's expected lineup: Kelleher; Bradley, Quansah, Van Dijk, Gomez; Endo, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Diaz
Midfield Battleground
The engine room promises to be a fascinating contest with Kobbie Mainoo potentially earning a starting berth alongside the experienced Casemiro. For Liverpool, the absence of several key midfielders means Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai will need to shoulder immense creative responsibility.
Attacking Firepower
Despite their injury concerns, both teams boast frightening attacking options. Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund will lead United's charge, while Mohamed Salah returns to spearhead Liverpool's frontline alongside Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz in what remains a potent attacking trio.
This FA Cup classic represents more than just a quarter-final - it's a battle for bragging rights, a test of squad depth, and potentially a season-defining moment for both clubs as they chase silverware.
