United are still missing a few key players but were able to call upon three summer signings in their starting line-up in Manchester, alongside superstars such as Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford. And they could struggle to put out too much of a stronger side this season.

But they were second best from start to finish as the Red Devils' habit of starting campaigns slowly under Ten Hag continued for a third year.

United flew out to the USA for a pre-season tour in the summer as they went head-to-head with Arsenal, Real Betis and Liverpool.

And during the trip, Ten Hag explained: "We need the squad to be as strong as possible. We already had a very good two buys [in Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee]. So when everyone is fit we have a team who can beat everyone, but with the squad depth we have to catch up because we had injuries, we are vulnerable."

United were dreadful for large spells of their Premier League showdown with the Merseyside outfit, with Brazil international Casemiro giving the ball away before the visitors' two first half goals as Luis Diaz bagged a brace.

The result means the 13-time Premier League champions have fallen to 14th in the table ahead of the international break after winning one and losing two of their first three clashes.

And following the defeat, Ten Hag said: "It is not like I am Harry Potter. You have to acknowledge that. For three players it was their first start of the season.

"[New signing] Manuel Ugarte did not play one minute - he needs to build his fitness. Then we have to build him into the team. I am sure he will contribute to our team. It will take a couple of weeks, maybe even a month. That is the same for a lot of players."

"I don't want to talk about positives today. This defeat hurts for us and our fans. It is the third game of the season.

"I have had to explain this so many times. We have to build a new team. We will be fine but it is clear we have to improve. At the end of the season I am quite confident we will have a big chance to lift another trophy."