A unique Clasico went the way of the Spanish champions after a touchline battle of coaches that saw Ronald Koeman look out of date against the previously under-pressure Zinedine Zidane.
There were positives for both sides at Old Trafford, but this goalless draw reflected their shared status as works in progress. It means neither is a likely contender in what could be an open title race.
Jurgen Klopp restored fit-again Alisson to the Liverpool starting line-up, which also features Diogo Jota and sees Fabinho again line up alongside Joe Gomez in central defence.
Manchester United and Chelsea have both had stuttering starts to the Premier League season. New signing Edinson Cavani is on the bench for United; Edouard Mendy is back for the Blues.