Premier League: Arne Slot Shines as Liverpool Dominate Devils at Old Trafford

Arne Slot Shines as Liverpool Dominate Manchester United at Old Trafford

Arne Slot's perfect start to life as Liverpool manager continued in emphatic fashion as his side handed Manchester United a 3-0 drubbing at Old Trafford. For Erik ten Hag, the pressure is already mounting just three games into the Premier League season, with United's vulnerabilities laid bare once again.

Liverpool’s Dominance

Having already secured wins against Ipswich and Brentford, Slot's Liverpool were expected to face their toughest challenge yet against United. Instead, they found the Red Devils to be surprisingly accommodating. From the outset, Liverpool were sharper, quicker, and more cohesive, epitomized by their first-half display where they could have easily racked up more than the two goals they did.

Luis Díaz was the star of the first half, netting twice to put Liverpool firmly in control. His first goal came after Casemiro’s misplaced pass, leading to a rapid counterattack that saw Díaz finish off a cross from Mohamed Salah. Díaz's second came after he capitalized on a mistake by the beleaguered Casemiro, who was caught dithering on the ball.

Liverpool’s third goal arrived in the second half, courtesy of Salah, who has consistently been a thorn in United's side. It was yet another example of Liverpool's relentless pressing and swift counterattacking play, leaving United's defence in tatters.

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United's Struggles

For Erik ten Hag, it was a harrowing afternoon. United were outclassed in every department, particularly in midfield where Casemiro endured one of his worst performances in a United shirt. His first-half struggles were so pronounced that ten Hag took the unusual step of substituting him at half-time, bringing on 20-year-old Toby Collyer in a bid to steady the ship.

United's defence, led by new signing Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez, was repeatedly exposed, with Liverpool carving through them almost at will. Even when United did muster some attacking intent, they found Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker in imperious form, denying Joshua Zirkzee on multiple occasions.

A Grim Outlook for Ten Hag

The result leaves United languishing in 14th place with just three points from their opening three games. The mood at Old Trafford was grim, with boos greeting ten Hag’s decision to substitute Alejandro Garnacho for Amad Diallo instead of the ineffective Marcus Rashford. By the final whistle, Old Trafford was half-empty, a stark contrast to the fervour at the start of the match.

Looking Ahead

For Liverpool, the victory was another statement of intent under Slot, who will undoubtedly be aiming to keep his side in the title conversation. For ten Hag, however, the vultures are circling once more. The defeat has only intensified the scrutiny on his tenure, with many questioning whether he can guide United back to the heights they aspire to.

As the dust settles, ten Hag will need to find answers quickly. Another performance like this, and his position may become untenable. Meanwhile, Slot and Liverpool march on, their sights set firmly on the summit of the Premier League.

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