Alan Shearer has delivered a cutting verdict on Manchester United’s current squad, naming only one of their players in a combined XI with rivals Liverpool. The decision reflects the widening gulf between the two Premier League giants as they prepare to clash at Anfield.
In a lineup that underlines Liverpool’s continued superiority, United captain Bruno Fernandes did not make the cut. Despite being one of United’s standout performers, Shearer left him out completely, signaling how far the Red Devils have fallen behind their northwestern rivals.
Liverpool’s dominance in recent years has been clear. They have won five of the last ten meetings against United, losing only twice, with a commanding aggregate score of 33-11. Even though Liverpool are enduring a poor run with three consecutive defeats, Shearer still views them as the stronger side. United, meanwhile, have managed to win two of their last three matches but remain outsiders heading into the highly anticipated encounter.
According to Shearer, the pressure is on both teams. He believes that despite Liverpool’s recent stumbles, the match remains one of the Premier League’s biggest fixtures due to the stature of both clubs. He emphasized that each side has plenty to play for — Liverpool aiming to bounce back from their slump and United desperate to prove their progress under pressure.
Only Luke Shaw managed to earn a place in Shearer’s combined XI. The experienced defender was chosen at left-back ahead of Liverpool’s Milos Kerkez, with his defensive solidity and versatility seemingly tipping the scales in his favor. Shaw’s inclusion is notable given his limited appearances this season and the competition from emerging full-backs across both teams.
The rest of Shearer’s XI was dominated by Liverpool players. Alisson was named in goal, protected by a defense of Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konate, and Virgil van Dijk alongside Shaw. In midfield, Shearer picked Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch, leaving out Liverpool’s record signing Florian Wirtz.
Upfront, Shearer preferred Hugo Ekitike as the central striker, with Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo completing the attacking trio. Big-name signings such as Alexander Isak were also left out despite their high-profile arrivals.
Shearer concluded by saying that United would “snap your hand off” for a draw at Anfield, acknowledging the challenge that awaits them in one of football’s most hostile environments.
