Throwbacks

Ranking every Liverpool player’s performance during the famous 7-0 dismantling of Man United

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It’s three years since Liverpool’s most famous win over bitter rivals Man United, a 7-0 demolition every fan loves to remember.

On March 5th 2023, Liverpool were unplayable. The passing, the quick transitions, the clinical finishing — the kind of quality we have been deprived of this season.

It was the epitome of what made Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool so special.

To mark the occasion, I rewatched the game this morning.

Who you dropping for Ngumoha against Wolves in the FA Cup then?

Rio Ngumoha of Liverpool running during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Liverpool FC and Atletico de Madrid at Anfield
Credit: Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar/Getty Images

If we were to do player ratings, it would be tens across the board. Instead, we are ranking each starter from that fabled afternoon at Anfield.

Ranking the stars of Liverpool 7-0 Man United

11. Alisson Becker

Effectively a bystander for most of the afternoon as Liverpool dominated. Alisson handled his basic duties with typical composure and moved the ball well, but someone had to be last, and a momentary lapse in concentration during the second half that nearly gifted United a goal puts him at the bottom.

10. Jordan Henderson

The captain anchored the midfield with a tireless pressing game, thriving in an unfamiliar left-sided role. Despite some direct passing that lacked precision, Henderson’s relentless energy and leadership helped Liverpool take control of the tie.

9. Harvey Elliott

Despite a couple of early unforced errors in possession, the youngster evolved into the creative engine of the midfield by consistently splitting the opposition lines with his vision. Elliott’s technical flair and rhythmic style of play justified his selection, ultimately capping off a top performance with a well-earned assist

8. Fabinho

The Brazilian regained his form with a commanding display, effectively outshining Casemiro by anchoring the midfield with composed possession and crucial early interceptions. Although Fabinho was on a steady decline by this point, he acted as a reliable focal point that allowed the team to dictate the tempo and control the centre of the pitch throughout.

Fabinho of Liverpool reacts after missing a chance to score in the first half during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC at Stamford Bridge
Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images

7. Virgil van Dijk

Van Dijk oversaw a defensive unit that tightened up significantly after an uneven opening period, ensuring the clean sheet was never truly in doubt. His composure helped anchor the backline as they stifled any threat of a comeback during the second-half rout.

6. Trent Alexander-Arnold

Alexander-Arnold delivered a standout performance that balanced relentless attacking drive with a disciplined defensive display against United’s roaming playmakers. His precise distribution and high-energy running down the flank served as a primary engine for the team’s transition play.

5. Ibrahima Konate

Ibrahima Konate was a total rock at the back, especially after a tricky first half where United actually had a few chances. Once the second half started, Konate completely shut down players like Rashford and even showed he could carry the ball forward into midfield when he wanted to. Imperious.

Liverpool Training Session
Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

4. Andy Robertson

Andy Robertson was a machine on the left side, constantly running and more than holding his own in a scrap with Antony. He showed great vision to set up the opening goal for Cody Gakpo. Vintage Robbo and a reminder that Milos Kerkez has to improve at Liverpool.

3. Darwin Nunez

Darwin Nunez had a bit of a slow start on the left wing, but he was absolutely unplayable in the second half as he bagged two goals and bullied United’s defence. He made professional defenders look like amateurs at times. I miss Darwin…

2. Cody Gakpo

Cody Gakpo was sharp from the opening whistle, drifting all over the front line and showing off some great linkup play. He scored two brilliant goals, including a clinical finish right before half-time and a smooth dink over David de Gea to make it three. One of his best performances in a Liverpool shirt.

If Gakpo and Salah aren’t to blame for their poor form, then who is? 🤔

Slot was quick to move any blame away from Gakpo after being asked about one goal in nine games…

Cody Gakpo before Leeds United v Liverpool - Premier League
Credit: Molly Darlington/Getty Images

1. Mo Salah

Mohamed Salah was on another level, completely tearing the United defence to shreds with two goals and two assists. The pace, the decision-making, the playmaking. It was a legendary, world-class performance that showed exactly what we have been missing from him this season.