It is English football's answer to El Clasico, a clash between the nation's two most successful clubs, though rarely a footballing classic in entertainment terms. Unlike Barcelona vs. Real Madrid, Liverpool vs. Manchester United is not a match likely to decide the destiny of the Premier League title since both have fallen from their historic pedestals in recent years.
In terms of the 2016-17 season and the rivals' ambitions, and their place in relation to each other, it might however be significant. Should Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool beat Jose Mourinho's United then they will climb six points clear, a decent advantage even after just eight matches played.