North West Derby

Lore & Background

The rivalry has been fuelled by the proximity of the two major cities that they represent, their historic economic and industrial rivalry, significant periods of domestic footballing dominance and European success, and their popularity at home and abroad. The two clubs are the most successful in the history of English football; between them they have won 40 league titles, 21 FA Cups, 16 League Cups, 37 FA Community Shields, nine European Cups/UEFA Champions Leagues, four UEFA Cups, one UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, five UEFA Super Cups, one Intercontinental Cup and two FIFA Club World Cups. As of 3 May 2026, Liverpool lead in terms of number of trophies won with 69 to United's 68, while United lead in the head-to-head record with 85 wins to Liverpool's 72; the remaining 61 matches have finished as draws.

Reader's Guide

Neither of the two, as well as Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, and Tottenham, have been relegated from the Premier League. The cities of Liverpool and Manchester are located in the north west of England, 35 miles apart. The rivalry between the two cities dates back to the Industrial Revolution, with economic and industrial competition. The construction of the Manchester Ship Canal, funded by Manchester merchants, was opposed by Liverpool politicians and bred resentment.

The crests of both the city of Manchester and Manchester United include stylised ships representing the Manchester Ship Canal. Both cities were part of the county of Lancashire until 1974. Manchester United was formed in Newton Heath in 1878 as Newton Heath LYR F.C. Liverpool F.C. was formed in 1892. Liverpool's first season was in the Second Division in 1893; they beat Newton Heath 2–0 in a test match to take their place in the First Division.

Did You Know?

• Manchester United's home kit is red, not white.
• The first meeting between the clubs was a play-off match in 1894 that saw Newton Heath relegated to the Second Division.