Virgil van Dijk explains Liverpool tactical approach vs Man United in the FA Cup

Virgil van Dijk has explained what he expects from Manchester United as the two teams face off in the FA Cup on Sunday afternoon at Old Trafford.

This Sunday afternoon at Old Trafford sets the stage for an electrifying clash as Manchester United square off against Liverpool, with Erik ten Hag‘s team aiming for their last chance at securing silverware this season.

Having bowed out of the Carabao Cup and Champions League, Manchester United are banking on the FA Cup to salvage their trophy aspirations, given their current sixth position in the Premier League standings.

Read More: Man United predicted XI vs Liverpool as Erik ten Hag makes smart tactical choice

The forthcoming quarter-final showdown against Liverpool represents a pivotal moment for both sides, offering a decisive pathway to the Wembley semi-finals in late April.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, when asked what type of game he is expecting, said (as quoted by This Is Anfield): “Intense. Not only the actual game but the whole build-up is a game on its own, but I like to be involved in these types of games.

“We always have difficult games against them, and I expect a difficult one on Sunday as well. They are finding ways to win, but I focus on what we have to do against them. It’s always difficult. It’s always intense.

“The history of the games with the two biggest clubs in England brings extra expectation and pressure, but why not just go out there and enjoy it, play our game and hopefully go to the next round?”

Speaking further, he explained that he does not think they will be able to use the same tactical approach that allowed them to defeat Ten Hag’s men 7-0 last season at Anfield or the 0-0 draw at the same ground earlier on this campaign, explaining that instead, Jurgen Klopp’s side will look to make it “as difficult as possible” for United.

“I think the game here was, I wouldn’t say, one-sided, but we had a lot of the ball. They created a couple of dangerous moments on the break, and we have to be aware of that, but if they would do it exactly the same when they play at home, I have no idea.

“We have to focus on our game and make it as difficult as possible, press them as high as we want and play our football and hopefully we can get through.”