The most-awaited Premier League fixture between Liverpool and Manchester United concluded with both sides sharing the spoils in a thrilling clash at the iconic Anfield stadium. Despite expectations for Liverpool to dominate the struggling Red Devils, the visitor’s resilient efforts denied the home team a victory.
Liverpool’s attack was unable to beat the opposition’s standing-tall defense. This draw marked the first instance of Jurgen Klopp’s side remaining goalless this season across all competitions. Notably, two young stars from Manchester United achieved a unique feat, matching the accomplishments of Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
Manchester United youngsters emulate Ronaldo-Rooney partnership
Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo are the dynamic teenage duo who recently made history by becoming the first pair of their age group to grace the field in a game against none other than Liverpool. This remarkable feat hasn’t been accomplished since 2005, making their achievement all the more extraordinary. These rising stars are undoubtedly ones to watch as they continue to make waves in the world of football. It should be noted that the record was once held by the legendary duo of Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
Alejandro Garnacho, the Argentine teenage sensation of Manchester United, has been making headlines this season with his spectacular goal-of-the-season contender strike against Everton. He has successfully cemented his place in Erik ten Hag’s first eleven, securing regular starts since breaking into the main team last season.
This season, the 19-year-old winger has made 15 Premier League appearances and 23 across all competitions. Alongside Garnacho, another United youth graduate quietly makes his way into the first team. The 18-year-old English midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, has made three appearances under the Dutch boss and was named in the starting eleven against Liverpool.
Mainoo’s start at Anfield made him the youngest player ever to start against Liverpool in the club’s history. In the absence of club captain Bruno Fernandes in the middle, he managed remarkably well against the in-form opposition. He made his debut appearance for the senior team in a 2-0 victory against Everton at Goodison Park.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney’s record vs Liverpool
Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney are regarded as two of the best players to ever play for Manchester United. The duo played a monumental role in the club’s success during their stint at the Premier League giants.
The pair arrived as promising young talents; the Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo joined Sir Alex Ferguson in 2003 from Sporting CP, and the following year, the English legend Rooney was brought in from Everton in 2004.
They were integral members of an incredible Manchester United squad under the Scottish boss, winning numerous titles. Their partnership flourished, and they went on to form one of the most lethal attacking pairings in Europe.
Particularly against their arch-rivals, Liverpool, the special duo always delivered performances as per expectations. Cristiano Ronaldo made 14 appearances against the Merseyside club, making just four goal contributions in all competitions.
On the other hand, Rooney, who spent more time at the club, played 30 times against the Reds, bagging 7 goals and providing 4 assists. The team emerged as winners in 13 matches and had 8 draws.
