Liverpool handed early boost as United duo absent from training

Liverpool have been given an early advantage ahead of their blockbuster Premier League clash with Manchester United this weekend, as reports indicate that two of United’s key players have missed training. The development comes as both sides prepare for what could be a decisive fixture in the title race and the top-four battle.

According to reports from EPL Index, both Noussair Mazraoui and Lisandro Martinez were notably absent from Manchester United’s latest training session at Carrington. The pair, who have been instrumental in United’s defensive setup under Ruben Amorim, are now major doubts for the crucial trip to Anfield.

Mazraoui, who has been sidelined since United’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea last month, was initially expected to return after the international break. However, Sky Sports has now confirmed that the Moroccan full-back was not involved in group training, signaling a possible setback in his recovery process. His absence will come as a major blow to Amorim, who has already been struggling to stabilize United’s defensive line.

Meanwhile, Lisandro Martinez continues to recover from a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained back in February. Despite making progress in rehabilitation, the Argentine is still not close to full match fitness. His continued absence leaves a gaping hole in the heart of United’s defense — an area Liverpool will certainly look to exploit with their fast-paced attacking play.

This double blow adds to a growing list of concerns for Amorim. Reports suggest that several academy players were called up to first-team training this week to fill the gaps, underlining the level of strain the squad is currently under. United’s depth is being tested, and facing a team as relentless as Liverpool at Anfield could prove to be a daunting task.

There was also a brief scare regarding Bruno Fernandes, who missed the same training session. However, the Portuguese midfielder’s absence was reportedly precautionary, as he was given additional rest following his international duties. Fernandes featured heavily in Portugal’s recent 2-2 draw with Hungary — a game in which Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai scored a dramatic late equalizer, continuing his run of impressive form for both club and country.

On the other hand, Arne Slot’s Liverpool are not without their own injury concerns. Star goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains sidelined after sustaining an issue during the Champions League clash against Galatasaray. His recovery timeline is being closely managed, with Caoimhín Kelleher expected to deputize once again between the sticks.

Ibrahima Konate is another player whose fitness remains uncertain. The French defender pulled out of international duty with a quad problem, and Liverpool’s medical staff are reportedly taking a cautious approach with him to avoid aggravating the issue. Slot will be hoping the towering defender can recover in time to shore up the Reds’ backline for what promises to be a physically demanding encounter.

Ryan Gravenberch has also been added to Liverpool’s list of fitness worries. According to journalist James Pearce, the Dutch midfielder will undergo further assessment after feeling discomfort in his hamstring during the Netherlands’ recent fixture. He was substituted at half-time as a precaution, but his availability for the United match remains unclear.

Despite those injury clouds, optimism still surrounds Anfield. The squad’s depth — strengthened by summer arrivals like Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak — ensures that Liverpool have the firepower to cope with temporary setbacks. Both players are expected to play key roles, as Slot looks to rotate effectively ahead of a congested run of fixtures.

With United potentially missing key defensive figures and facing fatigue after the international break, this game could represent a golden opportunity for Liverpool to build momentum and solidify their grip on the top of the table. Anfield will undoubtedly be bouncing, and Slot’s men will aim to make the most of United’s vulnerabilities to keep their title charge alive.

As the countdown to kickoff continues, all eyes will be on the final team announcements. For Liverpool, the mission is simple — take advantage of United’s misfortune and continue their dominant home form. For Amorim, it’s about resilience, trust in youth, and hope that his injury-hit squad can rise to the occasion in one of football’s fiercest rivalries.