Tension is boiling inside Liverpool’s dressing room as the Reds prepare for Sunday’s titanic clash against Manchester United at Anfield. Reports from sources close to the club suggest that manager Arne Slot’s team selection has sparked controversy among players and staff, with one senior insider warning that the Dutchman’s “favoritism” could destroy Liverpool’s rhythm and cost them the game.

In a powerful statement that’s gone viral among Liverpool fans, the insider didn’t hold back:

“Honestly, I don’t see Liverpool winning against this so-called fallen Manchester United if Wirtz starts tomorrow — not a chance. United knows exactly how to get under Liverpool’s skin, and this favoritism from Arne Slot needs to stop. You don’t gamble with games like this. We have a player Rio Nguhoma who’s been saving us time and time again, yet he’s always on the bench while this one keeps starting and ruining momentum. If Arne Slot wants to win, start the right man. Bench him — and it’ll be four losses in a row, mark my words.”

The fiery outburst has stirred a storm among supporters and analysts, many of whom believe Slot’s decision-making has become increasingly questionable in recent weeks.

Wirtz Under Fire: Reputation vs Reality

When Florian Wirtz joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen in a high-profile transfer, fans expected fireworks. The 22-year-old German was hailed as one of Europe’s most creative midfielders — technically gifted, visionary, and young enough to define the next generation of Liverpool football.

But things haven’t gone according to plan. Wirtz’s performances have been patchy and inconsistent, especially in crucial games. Critics argue that while he shines in possession, he struggles defensively and often slows down the team’s pressing rhythm — a key part of Arne Slot’s tactical blueprint.

Several insiders have reportedly voiced their frustrations privately, suggesting that Wirtz’s automatic inclusion is hurting the balance of the team. Fans, too, have noticed. Across social media, debates rage on about whether the German playmaker deserves to start in such a high-stakes fixture.

One post on X read:

“We all love Wirtz, but right now he’s not delivering. Why keep starting him when it’s clearly not working?”

Another added:

“This game is too big to take risks. Bench him. Let him earn his place back.”

Rio Nguhoma: The Rising Star in the Shadows

The frustration largely stems from the rise of Rio Nguhoma, a young midfielder who’s impressed fans every time he’s been given a chance. Known for his work rate, tactical awareness, and ability to transition play quickly, Nguhoma embodies the energy and intensity Liverpool were known for under Jurgen Klopp.

Many fans believe he’s the ideal fit for Arne Slot’s tactical system — disciplined, fast-thinking, and willing to press relentlessly. Yet, despite several strong performances off the bench, Nguhoma continues to find himself sidelined.

A source close to the team told Football Insider:

“Rio Nguhoma has been outstanding in training and games. The players respect him, and the fans adore him. But somehow, he’s still behind Wirtz in the pecking order. It’s confusing.”

This has fueled accusations of favoritism within the squad — a dangerous sentiment for any manager, especially ahead of such a fierce rivalry match.

Slot Under the Spotlight

Arne Slot’s arrival from Feyenoord was meant to usher in a new tactical era at Liverpool. His attacking philosophy, focus on structure, and discipline earned him early praise. But as results have started to dip, patience among supporters has begun to wear thin.

Liverpool’s recent performances — marked by sluggish starts, defensive lapses, and poor finishing — have left fans questioning the manager’s ability to adapt. The upcoming game against Manchester United is not just another fixture; it’s a defining moment for Slot’s credibility and authority.

According to club insiders, even senior players have raised concerns over Slot’s unwillingness to rotate and listen to feedback from within the dressing room.

“Fans want accountability,” a Liverpool source said. “If Slot continues to ignore what’s happening on the pitch, he’ll start losing the trust of both the players and the supporters.”

Manchester United Preparing to Exploit Liverpool’s Weakness

Meanwhile, Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United are reportedly confident heading into the clash. Sources from Carrington suggest that United’s tactical team has identified Liverpool’s midfield as the area to target — particularly if Wirtz starts.

“Liverpool lose their shape when Wirtz is pressed,” one United staff member revealed. “Amorim wants us to overload the center, press him aggressively, and hit them on the break.”

United, who are slowly rediscovering their rhythm under Amorim, are eager to take advantage of any disunity within Liverpool’s setup. If Slot’s men fail to respond, the consequences could be severe — both for their Premier League title hopes and for Slot’s standing in the dressing room.

Barcelona Monitoring Nguhoma Situation

In an unexpected twist, reports from Spain claim that Barcelona scouts have been tracking Rio Nguhoma for several months. His tactical discipline, composure, and ability to play multiple midfield roles have caught the attention of the Catalan club, who view him as a long-term option to replace Frenkie de Jong.

This revelation has further infuriated Liverpool fans, who can’t understand why one of Europe’s top clubs sees potential in Nguhoma — yet he remains overlooked by Slot.

One fan wrote on Facebook:

“Everyone’s been talking about him, even Barcelona wants him next season. He needs to start vs Manchester United — no excuses this time!”

Fan Reactions: Explosive and Divided

As the war of opinions intensifies, Liverpool’s fanbase remains split. Some still back Slot, urging patience and trust in his long-term vision. Others, however, believe he’s already making the same mistakes that doomed previous managers — ignoring form, misreading player morale, and failing to adapt when it matters most.

“This isn’t Feyenoord,” one fan posted. “Every decision here is magnified. If he gets this wrong against United, the pressure will be unbearable.”

Conclusion: A Defining Night Awaits

The Liverpool vs Manchester United rivalry has always been about more than points — it’s about pride, identity, and legacy. For Arne Slot, Sunday’s clash could either silence his critics or open the floodgates of doubt.

If he sticks with Wirtz and Liverpool win, he’ll be hailed as a tactical genius who stood by his beliefs. But if they lose, especially in the manner some fear, his judgment and leadership will come under serious fire.

As one insider put it plainly:

“He’s playing with fire. If Wirtz starts and it goes wrong, Slot won’t hear the end of it.”

Everyone has been talking about him — and even Barcelona wants him next season. He needs to start vs Manchester United!