Merson Backs Liverpool to Pip United Next Season Despite Old Trafford Defeat

Paul Merson has thrown his weight behind Liverpool to outrank Manchester United in the Premier League standings next season, despite the Reds' weekend reversal at Old Trafford.

United's 3-2 triumph last Sunday has them sitting six points clear of Arne Slot's side, prompting Gary Neville to suggest the Red Devils could be positioned to capitalize on what he foresees as a softer title race. Jamie Carragher pushed back against that assessment, contending that United's advantageous position stems largely from avoiding European commitments and early exits from both domestic cup competitions.

Merson aligns with Carragher's thinking, backing Liverpool to emerge as the higher finishers "all day long" when the dust settles next May.

Speaking to Sportskeeda, the former Arsenal man acknowledged Liverpool's dismal opening forty-five minutes against United but wasn't unduly troubled by the outcome. "When they pegged it back to 2-2, I genuinely thought they'd win it," he explained. "They didn't, but I'm not losing sleep over Liverpool's prospects."

The crux of his argument centres on the disparity in workload between the clubs this season. United have enjoyed the luxury of a once-weekly schedule, a significant advantage when stacked against the relentless demands Liverpool have shouldered. When Merson ran through the squad inventories, the contrast became apparent: United can point to standout performers in Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, and others finding their feet under Michael Carrick, yet Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities and midfield inconsistencies have been glaring.

"If Liverpool had beaten United, they'd have been level on points," Merson noted. "That tells you everything about how they've performed despite their issues."

He also dismissed concerns about the Reds' recent intensity levels, attributing the dip to players' understandable caution with the World Cup looming. When there's nothing immediate to chase, protecting fitness becomes the rational priority.

The verdict: come next season, when both clubs operate on equal competitive footing, Liverpool's quality will tell.