The Athletic FC Podcast The Preview: Liverpool vs Man United
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Oct 17, 2025 Megan Feringa, a dedicated football journalist, teams up with Oli Kay, a sharp football writer and analyst, to dive into the highly anticipated Liverpool vs Manchester United clash. They discuss the mounting pressure on managers, particularly for Arna Slott at Liverpool versus Ruben Amorim at United. Defensive injuries for Liverpool are examined, alongside tactical adaptations to exploit fullback weaknesses. Both share predictions and highlight key players, all while addressing the concerning trend of fewer open-play goals this season.
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Pressure Has Shifted To Liverpool
- Liverpool enter the game under short-term pressure after three straight defeats while United feel structurally more secure under Jim Ratcliffe's backing.
- Oli Kay highlights that a negative result would feel more alarming for Liverpool given recent form and expectations.
Ratcliffe's Three-Year Window Matters
- Jim Ratcliffe publicly giving Erik ten Hag a three-year window changes the perception of immediate sack risk at Manchester United.
- Megan Feringa says that this explicit timeframe shifts scrutiny toward performances rather than instant dismissal.
Liverpool's Defensive Depth Is Fragile
- Injuries expose Liverpool's defensive fragility, especially without Mark Gehi and with doubts over Joe Gomez's fitness.
- Oli Kay warns that central defence remains a key vulnerability if more injuries occur.