VIRGIL VAN DIJK reportedly aimed a swipe at Andre Onana after Manchester United's 0-0 draw at Liverpool.
But the Red Devils star had the perfect response after helping his side make up for last season's 7-0 thrashing.
talkSPORT claims the incident occurred in the tunnel after the full-time whistle.
United dug deep to earn a point on Merseyside, leaving Liverpool feeling deeply frustrated.
The hosts had an incredible 34 shots on goal compared to United's six.
And Erik ten Hag was left beaming at full-time despite seeing Diogo Dalot sent off late on for dissent.
However, tensions boiled over after the final whistle as Liverpool lost their hold on top spot to Arsenal, who beat Brighton 2-0 earlier today.
The Reds are now joint-second with Aston Villa after Unai Emery's men clinched a late winner at Brentford.
And it reportedly got too much for Liverpool captain Van Dijk to take.
The Dutchman is said to have approached United goalkeeper Onana in the tunnel as the players made their way to their repective dressing rooms.
It's alleged Van Dijk then said to his opponent: "Because of you we only played a half hour game."
However, Onana is said to have delivered the perfect response.
Rather than rising to the remark, the Cameroon star simply smiled back at Van Dijk before heading off.
The Liverpool ace then put United on blast with some post-match comments, telling Sky Sports:
"There was only one team trying to win the game but unfortunately it did not happen.
"We were superior in all aspects, they were hoping to hurt us on the counter and they are buzzing with a point."
Fans certainly could not resist commenting on the reported incident with Onana.
One said: "Someone's annoyed!"
Another declared: "My keeper."
One noted: "Van Dijk should blame himself for not scoring open headers."
Another added: "Rattled by United."
But Roy Keane was not impressed, with the United legend saying: "There's a lot of arrogance coming out of him, dissing Manchester United like that.
"He needs reminding that he is playing for a club that has won one title in thirty-odd years.
"Man United are in a difficult place. Like Liverpool were in a difficult place for many years.
"So maybe that bit of arrogance backfired on him today."