United goalkeeper David de Gea made one brilliant reaction save from Joel Matip in the first half but Jurgen Klopp's side failed to break down well-organised opponents.
It is a criticism which has been regularly levelled at the Reds this season but was perhaps excusable on this occasion considering the rivalry and the quality - United began the day joint top - they faced.
While United were not as dour as in last season's game here, there was no doubt Mourinho had reined in the attacking intent of a side which had previously scored 33 goals in 11 matches.
Ander Herrera was tasked with taking care of Liverpool's creative fulcrum Philippe Coutinho, with the Brazilian restricted to one really dangerous defence-splitting through-ball in the first half which overlapping full-back Alberto Moreno wasted with an overhit cross.
Mohamed Salah, on the right wing, was more of a threat and gave Matteo Darmian a testing time with the defender lucky not to concede a free-kick right on the edge of the penalty area. It may have briefly handed the initiative to Manchester City, who were ahead of them only on goal difference at the start of the day, but United's boss takes a longer-term view.
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