4 key battles that could decide Man Utd vs Liverpool in FA Cup

Manchester United will be hoping to prove themselves when they take on in-form Liverpool in the FA Cup on Sunday at Old Trafford.

The two sides last met in December, when the Red Devils were able to prove everyone wrong and hold on to a 0-0 draw at Anfield — a huge improvement from their 7-0 loss earlier in 2023.

United have dug deep recently against Liverpool but with the Reds getting key players like Mohamed Salah back, if they perform, they will perform.

Rasmus Hojlund is set to return from injury, gifting some hope to United, who will have a far better chance with him on the pitch.

It's set to be a thrilling fixture, but let's take a look at how this game may play out in four key battles.

It'll be a baptism of fire for 21-year-old Hojlund as he returns from injury to face arguably the best central defender in the world.

Hojlund has found his way to the net 11 times so far for United this season. His fluid movements often involve making a run for his marker, then a second run in the opposite direction, such as when he confidently attacks crosses.

His poacher mentality makes him a tough striker to crack. If he's positioned away from a defender's eye-line he will thrive.

Virgil van Dijk speaks for himself. He's a threat in his own box, which will affect Hojlund greatly. If he can keep the Danish forward away from the six-yard area, he will help to secure a Liverpool victory.

Raphael Varane was the rock in the heart of United's defence when they drew to Liverpool in December. He showed just how good he can be at anticipating danger.

In this case, danger will absolutely come in the form of Mohamed Salah.

Salah was on fire during Liverpool's showdown with Sparta Prague in the Europa League on Thursday, scoring the team's