Arne Slot made a powerful statement in his first major test as Liverpool manager, guiding his team to a commanding 3-0 victory over Manchester United on Sunday, with Luis Diaz netting twice and Mohamed Salah adding a third,Daily Trust reports.
Slot, who faces the daunting challenge of following in Jurgen Klopp’s footsteps, has made an impeccable start, securing a 100% record from three Premier League matches. This perfect run places Liverpool level with Manchester City at the top of the table.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s head coach, Erik ten Hag, is already feeling the heat after suffering a second consecutive defeat just three games into the new season. The Dutchman narrowly held onto his job after an internal review last season, following the club’s worst-ever Premier League finish of eighth. A surprising FA Cup final victory over Manchester City saved Ten Hag’s position and provided a glimmer of hope for a new beginning, especially after spending £200 million ($262 million) in the transfer market.
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However, United’s persistent issues from last season were laid bare by a dominant Liverpool side. Casemiro, who struggled throughout the match, was responsible for both of Diaz’s goals and was substituted at halftime for young midfielder Toby Collyer.
Before the match, United unveiled their new £42 million signing, Manuel Ugarte, who they now hope will bolster their midfield. In contrast, Liverpool opted not to sign a defensive midfielder, with Slot’s decision to reposition Ryan Gravenberch in that role proving to be an inspired early move.
During Klopp’s tenure, despite Liverpool’s general dominance over United, the German coach managed just two wins in 11 away games at Old Trafford. Last season, Liverpool’s inability to capitalize on their superiority at Old Trafford led to a 4-3 FA Cup quarter-final defeat and a 2-2 league draw that effectively ended their title hopes.
This time, however, Liverpool were clinical and could easily have matched their record 5-0 victory at Old Trafford from 2021.
United had a brief reprieve early on when Trent Alexander-Arnold’s goal was disallowed after Luis Diaz’s deflected cross struck Salah, who was in an offside position.
Casemiro, who had shown glimpses of his old form in the season’s opening matches after a difficult previous season, endured another torrid afternoon, raising questions about whether he can still perform at this level.
The Brazilian’s careless pass was intercepted by Gravenberch, who quickly found Salah. The Egyptian’s deft cross was headed in by Diaz at the far post.
Liverpool then had Alisson Becker to thank for maintaining their lead, as he made a crucial save to deny Noussair Mazraoui’s powerful low shot.
But United crumbled after conceding a second goal just three minutes before halftime. Casemiro was dispossessed by Diaz, who then charged into the box to finish off Salah’s cross.
Salah added to United’s misery with a superb strike in the 56th minute, his 15th goal in 16 appearances against the Red Devils, marking his seventh consecutive match at Old Trafford with a goal.
Salah could have scored more, but he fired over from close range while his teammates were calling for a pass. Alisson’s brilliance continued as he made another outstanding save to deny Joshua Zirkzee, preserving Liverpool’s clean sheet under Slot.
