Nicky Butt Ignites Liverpool vs Man United Debate With Bold Combined XI

Liverpool against Man United rarely needs extra fuel, yet Nicky Butt has just poured petrol over the rivalry with his latest combined XI. Speaking on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast, the former midfielder was tasked with picking a lineup from both clubs across past and present, and it sparked some serious talking points among Liverpool and Man United supporters.

Big Calls In Defence And Attack

There was no hesitation when it came to certain names. Butt immediately locked in Peter Schmeichel, Rio Ferdinand, and Denis Irwin. However, eyebrows were raised when he chose Jaap Stam instead of Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.

“Oh. Only because I picked Rio, the clash of the styles, I’d go with Jaap.”

That reasoning may not wash well at Anfield given Van Dijk’s impact on Liverpool’s recent era of dominance, particularly under Jurgen Klopp and now under Premier League-winning boss Arne Slot. Still, Butt was consistent in selecting players he felt complemented each other rather than simply choosing the most decorated.

There were Liverpool inclusions, notably Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of Gary Neville and Xabi Alonso in midfield. Yet the biggest headline came on the left wing.

Sadio Mane Over Ryan Giggs

Without hesitation, Butt picked Sadio Mane instead of his former Man United teammate Ryan Giggs. Considering Giggs’ legendary status at Old Trafford, that admission was striking.

The logic is difficult to argue against. Mane played a key role in Liverpool’s explosive front three alongside Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino. His pace, pressing and ruthlessness under Jurgen Klopp turned Liverpool into a Champions League and Premier League-winning machine.

Even statistically, the Senegal international edges it. Mane scored 111 Premier League goals in 263 matches, surpassing Giggs’ 109 strikes despite doing so in over 300 fewer appearances. Efficiency, versatility and big-game moments give him a strong case.

Respect Across Rivalries

Liverpool and Man United are defined by deep-rooted animosity, but Butt’s selections show how elite performance can transcend tribal lines. Fans may debate his omissions, particularly Van Dijk, yet the admiration for Mane from a former United stalwart highlights just how highly he is regarded.

As Liverpool prepare to host United at Anfield this weekend, Butt’s XI has only intensified the conversation. Supporters from both sides will be backing their legends, but one thing is clear: even those who lived the rivalry are willing to acknowledge greatness beyond their own badge.