Five games that could shape Manchester United's 2022/23 Premier League season under Erik ten Hag

Saturday, August 20 - United vs Liverpool

Manchester United were embarrassed at home to Liverpool last season. The 5-0 defeat at Old Trafford was Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's nadir yet the Norwegian wasn't immediately sacked after that humiliation.

Although Solskajer was not in charge as United lost 4-0 to Anfield in April, the gutless performance was much the same. United were dominated and humiliated at the hands of their rivals, and the lack of desire was particularly disheartening.

Liverpool have signed Darwin Nunez this summer and they are expected to be a formidable force again in the new season. United are set to play Liverpool in just Erik ten Hag's third game in charge and the game will be a baptism of fire for the Dutchman.

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Considering last season's 9-0 aggregate scoreline against Liverpool, some supporters might take a draw in the third game of the season. That would represent progress under Ten Hag and it would give United some confidence going forward.

Saturday, October 1 - City vs United

United won't have to wait much longer for another significant fixture. After the two-week September international break, United will play Manchester City at the Etihad on Saturday, October 1 and that game is their ninth of the Premier League season.

With former interim manager Ralf Rangnick in charge, the Reds lost that fixture 4-1 last season and Jadon Sancho scored United's only goal. Rangnick played without a recognised centre-forward on that occasion and his tactics were criticised post-match.

United have otherwise enjoyed plenty of success at the Etihad in recent seasons and Ten Hag will be hoping to continue that trend.

Saturday, November 12 -