Liverpool vs Manchester United, what to expect from the Anfield crowd

• Liverpool is set to host Manchester United this weekend amidst the Anfield Road stand opening after a successful test event
• The capacity of the Liverpool home stadium is expected to rise to over 57,000
• Liverpool welcome Man Utd to Anfield on Sunday afternoon and will see the highest crowd at Anfield in over 50 years

Liverpool have announced a significant milestone in the ongoing redevelopment of the Anfield Road stand, confirming the opening of the upper tier. This development, which boosts the stadium’s capacity to over 57,000, adds an extra layer of excitement ahead of the highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals Manchester United.

The ambitious project to redevelop the Anfield Road stand commenced in 2021 with the initial aim of completing the expansion by the start of the 2023/24 Premier League season. However, unforeseen delays, including setbacks caused by the appointed construction company filing for administration, have resulted in a prolonged timeline, with the stand being only partially open for the majority of the current campaign.

Following a successful test event on Monday evening, Liverpool has secured all necessary health and safety licenses from Liverpool City Council, paving the way for the opening of the expanded upper tier for the upcoming derby against Manchester United on Sunday. In an official statement, the club expressed, “The next stage of the planned phased opening of the new Anfield Road Stand will see the expanded upper tier open for supporters for the first time.”

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This increased capacity, surpassing 57,000, presents an exciting opportunity for Liverpool to achieve its highest home attendance since 1973 when 56,202 fans witnessed a memorable 0-0 draw against Leicester City. Paul Cuttill, the vice-president of stadium operations, shared his enthusiasm about the development, emphasizing the hard work and commitment invested in the complex project. He stated, “This is fantastic news and testament to the sheer hard work and commitment that all involved in this complex project have put in.”

Anfield could host more than 57,000 fans this Sunday when Liverpool host Manchester United after the completion of the Road Stand extension. | PHOTO: Liverpool FC |

The Anfield Road stand redevelopment faced a significant setback when the construction company, Buckingham, went into administration in September. This led to necessary revisions in construction schedules, initially pushing the expected opening of the upper tier to January. However, Liverpool now finds itself ahead of schedule, a credit to the dedication of everyone involved in the project. Cuttill expressed gratitude to the fans who attended the test event, acknowledging their role in making the opening possible. He said, “Now we can’t wait to welcome those 57,000 fans to Anfield and see the new upper tier of the Anfield Road Stand come alive on matchday.”

While the opening of the upper tier marks a significant achievement, there is still work to be done before the Anfield Road stand reaches its full operational capacity. The final phase of the redevelopment is set to increase the capacity to over 60,000, providing an even larger stage for fans to support their beloved team.

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Liverpool’s commitment to enhancing the matchday experience for supporters and creating a state-of-the-art stadium reflects the club’s dedication to its rich history and the passionate fanbase. The completion of the Anfield Road stand redevelopment is not just a testament to the club’s ambition but also a celebration of the collaboration and hard work of all those involved in this intricate project.

As Liverpool prepares to welcome 57,000 fans to Anfield, the atmosphere is set to be electrifying, marking a new chapter in the storied history of the iconic stadium. The anticipation and excitement surrounding the completed upper tier signify a positive step forward for Liverpool Football Club and its supporters, emphasizing the continual evolution and improvement of one of football’s most iconic venues.

The Anfield Road stand, once fully operational, will not only enhance the matchday experience for fans but also solidify Anfield’s status as a world-class stadium. Liverpool’s commitment to investing in infrastructure and creating a modern, fan-friendly environment aligns with the club’s ethos of progression and excellence. The completed upper tier stands as a testament to Liverpool’s ability to overcome challenges, adapt to setbacks, and deliver on its promises to the fanbase.

The journey towards a fully redeveloped Anfield Road stand has been fraught with challenges, from the initial construction delays to the unforeseen hurdle of the appointed construction company facing administration. However, Liverpool’s resilience and determination have prevailed, allowing them to open the upper tier ahead of schedule and provide an enhanced experience for fans attending the upcoming clash against Manchester United.

Looking forward, the completion of the Anfield Road stand redevelopment represents a significant chapter in Liverpool’s storied history. It signifies not only a physical expansion of the stadium but also a symbolic gesture of the club’s commitment to its supporters and the pursuit of excellence on and off the pitch. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming fixture against Manchester United, the expanded capacity and vibrant atmosphere at Anfield will undoubtedly contribute to a memorable and historic occasion.