After the 2-1 win against Liverpool, Manchester United remains seen as the team with a superior 2025 summer transfer window, as their new recruits collectively stand out.
According to many English football experts, including journalist Lewis Oldham, Manchester United is showing that they are the true “winners” in the 2025 summer transfer market, not Liverpool. The difference lies in the actual performance effectiveness of the new signings, especially following the crucial win against their Merseyside rivals.
In the summer of 2025, MU’s transfer activity sparked much debate. Many believed their spending lacked direction, while Liverpool was praised for a spectacular overhaul worth over £400 million. However, after eight rounds of the 2025/26 Premier League, the on-field reality has proven otherwise.
Liverpool seems to have “misallocated” their funds. Despite signing stars like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, neither has displayed form worthy of their transfer fees. Isak has struggled with fitness after a long off-season, while Wirtz is still trying to find his best position under coach Arne Slot. Additionally, defenders Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong have yet to reach the expected level, leaving Liverpool’s defense fragile without Virgil van Dijk.
Meanwhile, Manchester United quietly built a more effective squad. Under coach Ruben Amorim, the £214 million quartet of Senne Lammens, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko have all made clear marks. Lammens provides stability in goal, a notable upgrade from Andre Onana. Mbeumo and Cunha quickly adapted, applying strong pressure on the attack flanks, while Sesko maintains impressive scoring form with two goals in the last two matches — including one against Liverpool.
Not only excelling on the pitch, MU has also been praised for their squad management. Under INEOS’s guidance, the Manchester club cleverly loaned out or sold surplus players like Jadon Sancho, balancing finances and freeing wage space for more effective deals.
Conversely, Liverpool is criticized for rushing decisions. Selling Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz — previously key players — has destabilized their attack, while expensive new signings have not yet met expectations.
Journalist Lewis Oldham commented: “Liverpool spent a lot, but Manchester United are the ones investing wisely. They brought in players that fit Amorim’s philosophy and are seeing clear results on the field.”
After eight rounds, MU has risen into the European competition spots, while Liverpool is beginning to show signs of fatigue. Alongside the 2-1 win at Old Trafford, this matchup symbolizes the Red Devils’ resurgence — a club gradually reclaiming its status not only through results but also through smart, practical transfer strategies.
With the impressive form of their new signings, it can be said that Manchester United has beaten Liverpool twice — once on the pitch and once in the transfer market.