Goals from Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford sealed a memorable win against Jurgen Klopp's side.
Erik ten Hag secured his first win as Manchester United manager in memorable style to pile further misery on Liverpool.
The Red Devils edged a thriller at Old Trafford – winning 2-1 after surviving a late fightback from their fiercest rivals.
But they were worthy of the three points with their most complete performance under Ten Hag to move them above Jurgen Klopp's side and lift some of the clouds hanging over the club.
On a night when fans protested against owners, the Glazers, both inside and outside the ground, the Theatre of Dreams also reached volumes rarely seen in recent years.
Jadon Sancho fired United into a first-half lead with some trickery in the box and then an impudent finish. And they doubled their advantage in the second half when substitute Anthony Martial set Marcus Rashford free to sweep a shot past Alisson.
It was ultimately enough to claim a victory they absolutely needed.
Getty ImagesThe Winners
Jadon Sancho:
Manchester United thought they were signing a player to get fans off their seats when they brought in Sancho from Borussia Dortmund last year. This was an example of what he can do.
He repeatedly got in behind Liverpool – but it was his showmanship in the box before firing United ahead that brought back memories of some of the club's greatest wingers.
Wonderful composure to leave Liverpool shirts rooted, before the coolest of finishes.
Raphael Varane:
Seemed to personally take it upon himself to make sure every United player was fully focussed and switched on.
It only raises further questions over Ten Hag's decision to play Harry Maguire ahead of him in the opening two games of the season.
This was a show of real leadership. And exactly what United fans would have expected from a player they've been desperate to see in the starting XI.
Anthony Elanga:
Provided more intensity in the first 45 minutes than any United forward in the previous two games this season.
No one will have been more relieved to see him go off at half-time with an injury than Trent Alexander-Arnold, who he frequently had on the back foot.
Struck the post early on with a sweet shot that perhaps he should have done better with – but made up for that with his ball for Sancho's goal.
On this evidence, Ten Hag will struggle to leave him out when fit.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesThe Losers
Harry Maguire:
Fresh questions will be raised about his future after being dropped for such a big game, especially after Varane and Lisandro Martinez produced such an effective partnership.
Manchester United sources insisted over the weekend they had zero intention to sell their captain – but this will have put potential suitors on alert.
If he does stay, it looks like he's in for an extended spell on the bench.
Trent Alexander-Arnold:
This was one of those games where the full-back's failings were cast into sharp focus. Ten Hag clearly targeted the space behind him and Elanga and Rashford exploited it.
He brought down Rashford early on when panicked into a challenge, and was later booked when Elanga's feet were too quick for him.
He is a wonderful talent, but it is a problem when opposition managers identify him as a fault line.
Cristiano Ronaldo:
Manchester United have proven there is a way without Ronaldo – and to do so against their fiercest rivals is a major statement.
The Portuguese legend wants to join a Champions League club. And even if he doesn't get his move, he certainly doesn't want to sit on the bench anywhere. But here we saw Rashford and then Martial prove they can lead the line effectively in his absence.
Getty ImagesManchester United Ratings: Defence
David de Gea (7/10):
Three big saves in the second half and could consider himself unfortunate to be beaten by Salah's effort after blocking Carvalho.
Diogo Dalot (8/10):
Got stuck into Liverpool's forwards early on and epitomised United's fight, but still a threat going forward. It was his quick through ball that led to Elanga hitting the post.
Raphael Varane (9/10):
Great tackle denied Firmino an almost certain goal in the first half. A real show of leadership.
Lisandro Martinez (9/10):
He's not looked like much of a butcher so far – but this was a full-blooded performance. Goal-line clearance saved Fernandes' blushes.
Tyrell Malacia (7/10):
Really controlled display. Got forward in support – but also concentrated on his job at the back.
Getty ImagesMidfield
Scott McTominay (7/10):
Added bite and energy to United's midfield to help ensure they won the physical battle in the middle.
Christian Eriksen (8/10):
So composed and intelligent with the ball. Hurt Liverpool with his quick passing, including his ball which led to Sancho's strike.
Bruno Fernandes (7/10):
More involved than we've seen in the opening games, with some effective link-up play. Lucky not to score an own goal. Also wound up away players after Salah's late strike.
