Liverpool went into their clash with Chelsea desperate for a strong display and victory before the international break, but neither came as they suffered a disappointing afternoon in West London.

 

Estevao’s stoppage-time strike sealed a 2-1 win for the Blues after Cody Gakpo had cancelled out Moises Caicedo’s opener, leaving the Reds on their first three-game losing streak in two years.

 

The international break arrived at the right time, offering Liverpool players a chance to regain form ahead of a demanding winter run. However, not all has gone smoothly — Alexander Isak has struggled with Sweden, and Ryan Gravenberch withdrew from the Netherlands squad through injury.

 

One bright spot has been Alexis Mac Allister, who rediscovered his form with Argentina. The midfielder impressed in a 6-0 win over Venezuela, netting twice — first with a header from Nico Gonzalez’s setup, and then with a composed finish following a Jose Lopez assist.

 

Mac Allister looked off the pace in Liverpool’s defeat to Chelsea, but fans will be hoping his international performances signal a return to top form. Supporters on X praised him, calling him “vital” for his passing quality and jokingly warning: “Pray for Manchester United.” Others celebrated his resurgence, saying, “He is so back,” and “Perfect timing to be back in form.”

 

While his Argentina form is encouraging, there’s no certainty he’ll replicate it for Liverpool this weekend. The Reds are unbeaten in their last six Premier League meetings with United and currently sit five points and eight places above them.

 

Still, not everything looks straightforward — referee Michael Oliver will take charge of the match, a decision likely to frustrate Arne Slot. The Dutch boss was unhappy with Oliver’s officiating in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Everton earlier this year and will hope no major decisions go against his side this time.

 

Ultimately, Slot will want a dominant performance from his team to ensure that any refereeing controversy doesn’t decide

the outcome.