Liverpool vs Manchester United: The Historic Rivalry of English Football
The battle for supremacy between Liverpool vs Manchester United is one of the most iconic rivalries in world football. These two football giants have been at the forefront of English football for decades, dominating domestic and European competitions. As of 2025, both clubs are tied with an impressive 68 major trophies each, making them the most successful teams in English football history.
But with both clubs closing in on new milestones, the question remains: who is the more successful club in the history of English football?
Trophy Tally: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Both Liverpool and Manchester United have amassed an impressive number of titles, but the breakdown of their achievements reveals key differences. Let’s take a look at the major honors each club has won:
| Trophy Category | Liverpool FC | Manchester United FC |
|---|---|---|
| League Titles | 19 | 20 |
| FA Cups | 8 | 13 |
| League Cups | 10 | 6 |
| Community Shields | 16 | 21 |
| European Cups/Champions league | 6 | 3 |
| UEFA Cups/Europa League | 3 | 1 |
| UEFA Super Cups | 4 | 1 |
| FIFA Club World Cups | 1 | 1 |
| Intercontinental Cups | 0 | 1 |
| Total Major Trophies | 68 | 68 |
As you can see, while Manchester United leads with the most English league titles (20), Liverpool is known for its dominance in European competitions, with 6 European Cups compared to United’s 3. Both clubs have been consistent contenders on the global stage, with Liverpool claiming 6 European Cups, and Manchester United establishing themselves as a powerhouse with 21 Community Shields.
Recent Successes: Liverpool on the Brink of a Historic 20th Title
As of April 2025, Liverpool is closing in on their 20th league title, an achievement that would equal Manchester United’s league record. Under the management of Arne Slot, Liverpool has been in excellent form, and the club just needs one more point in their upcoming match against Tottenham Hotspur to secure the title. This would solidify their position as one of the most successful clubs in English football, with 20 league titles, leveling the playing field with Manchester United at the top.
Liverpool’s rise in recent years has been nothing short of remarkable, with significant success in both domestic and international competitions. Their resurgence under Jürgen Klopp in the late 2010s and their recent dominance in the Premier League have propelled them to the top, giving them the chance to equal United’s league title record in 2025.
Manchester United’s Recent Triumphs: Erik Ten Hag’s First Trophy
While Liverpool is on the cusp of equaling United’s league title record, Manchester United has recently tasted success in the EFL Cup, defeating Newcastle United 2-1 in the final to claim their first major trophy under former manager Erik ten Hag. Although their title haul in recent years has slowed compared to their peak years under Sir Alex Ferguson, United’s consistency in staying competitive at the top level remains undeniable.
The club has also seen significant progress in European football, reaching the later stages of the Europa League and remaining a force in domestic cup competitions. Despite a transitional phase post-Ferguson, United’s ambition under under Reuben Almorim is clear — rebuild and return to the summit of English football.
The Head-to-Head: United vs. Liverpool in the Derby
The Manchester United-Liverpool matches are always more than just football games. They are battles for pride, supremacy, and bragging rights. Over the course of their long-standing rivalry, both clubs have had their moments of glory. Manchester United leads the all-time head-to-head with 83 wins compared to Liverpool’s 72, while the two clubs have drawn 61 times in their 216 encounters.
Despite United’s edge in overall victories, Liverpool has been more dominant in recent years, winning the last few meetings, including a famous 4-0 drubbing at Old Trafford in 2024. Matches between these two clubs are always intense, passionate affairs that often have major implications for the title race, making the rivalry all the more thrilling for fans around the world.
Who Is the More Successful Club?
When it comes to determining who is the more successful club between Liverpool and Manchester United, it ultimately depends on the criteria.
- Manchester United boasts more league titles (20 vs. 19), a superior FA Cup record (13 vs. 8), and an edge in Community Shields (21 vs. 16).
- However, Liverpool shines with its European success, with 6 European Cups, making them the most successful British team in European competition.
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Both clubs have enjoyed periods of dominance, and their legacies are cemented in the history of English football. Liverpool’s recent surge, particularly in European and domestic competitions, has seen them close the gap with Manchester United, but the debate is still alive.
Conclusion: A Rivalry That Will Continue to Define English Football
As Liverpool closes in on their 20th league title, it’s clear that the rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool is far from over. Both clubs will continue to compete for domestic and European supremacy, with both having their eyes set on future glory. With Liverpool poised to potentially equal Manchester United’s league title record in 2025, the competition between the two clubs will only intensify, ensuring that the rivalry remains one of the most compelling in football.
For fans, this rivalry is more than just about trophies — it’s about history, identity, and passion. And as these two giants continue their quest for more silverware, it’s certain that this iconic rivalry will remain a defining feature of English football for years to come.
