As Mohamed Salah faces injury absence, Liverpool's attack requires Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz to elevate their performances. With Salah's formidable record of 13 goals in 16 games against Manchester United, the Premier League's most expensive signings must deliver during a critical stretch against top opposition. The £241m summer duo faces immediate pressure to justify their price tags and fill the void left by the Egyptian.

Isak, still seeking his first 90-minute appearance for Liverpool, showed promise with his first Anfield goal against Crystal Palace. Wirtz has impressed in moments but awaits a statement performance, with manager Arne Slot insisting the German's lack of goals or assists against European teams is merely a "coincidence." Both players continue developing as they adjust to Premier League demands and physical intensity.

Liverpool's immediate challenge involves fixtures against United, Chelsea, and Villa that could determine third-place positioning. Victory at Old Trafford would demonstrate progress amid a difficult season. For Slot and Liverpool, this period offers a chance to showcase whether these marquee signings can fulfill their potential and help the club return to consistent Champions League contention.