With Manchester United and Liverpool facing off this past Monday, many City fans watched, intending to enjoy the misery of one (or both) to go along with their poor start to the season. United, fresh off their embarrassment at Brentford, were desperate for a change in form. However, versus a strong Liverpool side, it seemed unlikely for United to grab their first points of the season during the match.

   Liverpool, who disappointingly drew their first two games, looked to turn around their form during their trip to Old Trafford. The squad's injuries look like they are playing a huge role for this side, as it was evident on Monday that Liverpool has holes that need to be filled. Defensively, it’s apparent that Van Dijk misses the partnership of Konate or Matip. In attack, Liverpool was short of Diogo Jota (injury) and Darwin Nunez (suspension). However, the biggest problem area of the team is the midfield, and the lack of creative players in it. While Harvey Elliot has put in some decent performances to start the season, he is nowhere near the impact that Thiago contributes. Losing him in the first match of the season was critical for Liverpool as they now lack the midfield creativeness to truly involve the quality they have up front in Mohammed Salah and Luis Diaz. Overall, Liverpool lacks the quality in squad depth to stay at their top level. This was clear on Monday as Liverpool’s lack of ability to control United’s attack led to a poor performance. The lack of ability to contain the pace of Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho was the biggest disadvantage for Liverpool. United could sit and shut down Liverpool’s lack of creativity and use their pace to counterattack with ease.

   After what seemed to be the lowest point in the last decade of United football, they were able to respond properly with a deserving win over Liverpool. United will continue to struggle and have many highs and lows, but fans should not worry about the potential of a relegation battle. On the other hand, Liverpool is currently in 16th place on two points after three games. Already down five points on City, Liverpool needs to quickly turn around this form in order to compete for this year’s Premier League. City supporters will be happy seeing both of their rivals struggling at the minute but what is most important for fans to watch out for is their upcoming match on Saturday versus Crystal Palace.