Liverpool F.C. vs Manchester United F.C.: The North West Derby Guide

The match between Liverpool F.C. and Manchester United F.C., known as the North West Derby, is the most successful and fierce rivalry in English football history. As of February 2026, the two clubs remain the most decorated in England, with a combined total of over 130 major trophies, including 40 league titles and 9 European Cups. Historically, Manchester United holds the edge in total head-to-head victories (84 wins to Liverpool’s 72), but the rivalry is defined by distinct eras of dominance—Liverpool ruled the 1970s and 80s, while United dominated the Premier League era under Sir Alex Ferguson. 

Today, the rivalry remains the most-watched club fixture globally, fueled by regional economic history, geographic proximity, and a constant battle for the title of “England’s Greatest Club.” In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the latest match results from the 2025/26 season, all-time record holders, trophy comparisons, and practical advice for securing tickets and attending a match at Anfield or Old Trafford.

The Historic North West Derby Origins

The rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester began not on a football pitch, but as an economic feud during the Industrial Revolution in the late 19th century. Tensions escalated in 1894 when Manchester opened the Manchester Ship Canal, allowing merchants to bypass Liverpool’s port fees, which significantly impacted Liverpool’s economy.

This regional resentment transferred to the football field as both cities established dominant clubs. When Liverpool FC and Newton Heath (later Manchester United) first met in 1894, they weren’t just playing for points; they were representing two cities locked in a battle for regional supremacy. This deep-seated “canal war” is the reason the hatred remains visceral today.

All-Time Head-to-Head Record

In competitive matches, Manchester United has historically been the more successful side in head-to-head encounters, tallying 84 victories compared to Liverpool’s 72, with approximately 60 draws. However, the modern era has seen a massive shift, with Liverpool recording historic wins like the 5-0 at Old Trafford in 2021 and the record-breaking 7-0 at Anfield in 2023.

Despite United’s higher total win count, recent seasons have seen Liverpool bridge the gap. In the 2025/26 season, the most recent meeting at Anfield on October 19, 2025, ended in a 2-1 victory for Manchester United, marking a significant turnaround for the Red Devils under new management.

Comparing the Trophy Cabinets

As of February 2026, Liverpool and Manchester United are deadlocked in terms of total major trophies, with both clubs having secured 68 titles each (including the Community Shield). If the Community Shield is excluded as a “minor” trophy, Liverpool slightly leads with 46 major honors to United’s 45.

Trophy Breakdown (as of Feb 2026)

This parity in league titles (20-20) remains the ultimate point of contention, as both clubs strive to pull ahead and claim the undisputed record for most English top-flight championships.

Iconic Managers and Eras

The story of this rivalry is a tale of two distinct dynasties: the Liverpool era of Bill Shankly, Bob Paisley, and Kenny Dalglish, and the United era of Sir Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson. These managers didn’t just win trophies; they built cultures that defined the identity of their respective clubs for decades.

Sir Alex Ferguson famously stated his goal was to “knock Liverpool right off their perch,” a feat he achieved by surpassing Liverpool’s 18 league titles. Conversely, the arrival of Jürgen Klopp at Liverpool in 2015 revitalized the Reds, leading to their first Premier League title in 2020 and a return to the summit of European football.

Record-Breaking Scores and Hat-tricks

The North West Derby has produced some of the most shocking scorelines in football history, with the 7-0 Liverpool victory at Anfield on March 5, 2023, standing as the widest margin in the rivalry’s competitive history. Other notable results include a 7-1 win for Liverpool in 1895 and a 6-1 victory for Manchester United in 1928.

Individual performances often become legendary in these matches. Mohamed Salah holds the record for the most goals scored in the fixture, including a historic hat-trick at Old Trafford in 2021—the first by an away player in the Premier League era. For United players, Stan Pearson and Sandy Turnbull remain historical icons for their prolific scoring against the Merseysideiders.

Modern Rivalry: Slot vs. Amorim

In 2026, the rivalry entered a new tactical phase with Liverpool under Arne Slot and Manchester United led by Ruben Amorim. Slot has maintained Liverpool’s high-intensity, efficient style, while Amorim has focused on a structural rebuild following United’s struggles in previous seasons.

The most recent match in October 2025 showcased this tactical battle, where Amorim’s United utilized a high press to overcome Slot’s side 2-1. This new managerial era has refreshed the rivalry, moving away from the Klopp-Ten Hag years and introducing fresh European philosophies to the North West.

Practical Information and Planning

2025/26 Fixture Dates

• Anfield (Liverpool Home): October 19, 2025 (Result: 1-2)
• Old Trafford (Man Utd Home): May 2, 2026 (Scheduled)

Ticket Prices and How to Buy

Tickets for this fixture are among the most difficult to obtain in world sport. Official prices generally range from £40 to £60, but because these matches sell out to club members instantly, secondary market prices often exceed £300–£500.

• Liverpool Tickets: Available via the official LFC website, typically requiring a “Full” or “Light” membership and a high number of previous match credits.
• Man United Tickets: Distributed through the “Official Membership” ballot system. Fans are encouraged to apply weeks in advance.

Getting to the Stadiums

• Anfield: Use the 917 express bus from Liverpool City Centre or the Sandhills station shuttle. Postcode: L4 0TH.
• Old Trafford: Take the Metrolink (Trams) from Manchester Piccadilly to the Old Trafford or Wharfside stops. Postcode: M16 0RA.

Tips for Visitors

• Arrive Early: Security checks and fan-zone activities start 2-3 hours before kick-off.
• Colors: Be mindful of wearing team colors in “neutral” or “home” sections to avoid being denied entry.
• Bag Policy: Both stadiums have strict “no bag” or small bag policies (A4 size maximum).

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has won more trophies, Liverpool or Man Utd?

As of early 2026, both clubs are tied with 68 total trophies. However, Liverpool has more European Cups (6 vs 3), while Manchester United has more FA Cups (13 vs 8).

When is the next Liverpool vs Manchester United match?

The next scheduled Premier League meeting is on May 2, 2026, at Old Trafford. The match is scheduled to kick off at 2:00 PM BST.

Why is it called the North West Derby?

The name refers to the geographic location of both cities in the North West of England. They are separated by only 35 miles via the M62 motorway.

Has any player transferred directly between the two clubs?

Direct transfers are extremely rare due to the intense rivalry. The last player to move directly between the clubs was Phil Chisnall, who moved from United to Liverpool in 1964.

Who is the top scorer in Liverpool vs Man Utd history?

Mohamed Salah is the all-time leading scorer in the fixture, having scored 15 goals against Manchester United as of the end of 2025.

What was the biggest win in this rivalry?

Liverpool’s 7-0 victory over Manchester United at Anfield on March 5, 2023, is the largest winning margin in the history of the competitive fixture.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the match?

No, tickets for this fixture are never available at the gate. They are sold out weeks, often months, in advance through official membership channels.

Which stadium is bigger, Anfield or Old Trafford?

Old Trafford is larger, with a capacity of approximately 74,310. Following recent expansions, Anfield’s capacity is approximately 61,276.

How many league titles do they each have?

Both Liverpool and Manchester United are currently tied with 20 English top-flight league titles each.

Why is the rivalry so intense?

The intensity stems from a mix of 19th-century economic competition, geographic proximity, and the fact that they are the two most successful teams in English football history.

Final Thoughts

The rivalry between Liverpool F.C. and Manchester United F.C. remains the undisputed pinnacle of English football, transcending sport to reflect over a century of cultural and economic competition. As we move through the 2025/26 season, the “North West Derby” continues to be a litmus test for both clubs’ ambitions. With Arne Slot and Ruben Amorim now leading their respective sides, the tactical battle has evolved, yet the core objective remains unchanged: to claim the title of England’s most successful club and secure the 21st league title that would break the current deadlock.

The enduring appeal of this fixture lies in its unpredictability and its tendency to produce historic moments, from the tactical masterclasses of the past to modern-day anomalies like the 7-0 at Anfield. Whether played at a refurbished Anfield or a legendary Old Trafford, a match between the Reds and the Red Devils is more than just ninety minutes of football—it is a renewal of a historic feud that defines the identity of North West England. For fans across the globe, the rivalry remains the ultimate spectacle of passion, heritage, and the relentless pursuit of silverware.

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