Manchester United hope they can continue their unbeaten run in this season’s Europa League when they face Real Sociedad on Thursday night.
After Manchester United’s penalty shootout defeat to Fulham in the FA Cup, Ruben Amorim knows that the Europa League is his only chance of winning silverware in his first season at Old Trafford.
The defence of our FA Cup crown ended prematurely and United must avoid the same outcome from their round of 16 clash against Real Sociedad.
United secured third spot in the 36-team league phase, whereas Sociedad finished 13th and required a play-off win over FC Midtylland to qualify for the knockouts. The Spanish club made light work of that by beating their Danish opponents 7-3 on aggregate.
There will be a lot on the line on Thursday night, so without further ado here is United In Focus’ predicted line-up to face La Real.
Manchester United predicted XI vs Real Sociedad
United’s best form this season has come in the Europa League, with the Reds unbeaten in eight matches this season.
After watching his side crash out of the FA Cup at the weekend, Amorim will want to keep United’s hopes alive in Europe because otherwise it will make for a long run in without having anything to play for.
Of course, the players are playing for their futures as United first-team members. That is why they need to show up in San Sebastian.
Andre Onana
Andre Onana performed well against Fulham at the weekend, particularly in the second half of normal time. He will keep his place in the team for Thursday night’s crucial Europa League encounter.
Leny Yoro
Getting better by the week, Leny Yoro appears to be making the most of the game time he has been receiving under Amorim. There is no reason to take him out of the team for this match.
Matthijs de Ligt
With Harry Maguire ruled out of the trip to Spain, Matthijs de Ligt is likely to take up the central role in United’s back three.
Ayden Heaven
Replacing Maguire in defender, Ayden Heaven could get his first start since joining United from Arsenal in January. The 18-year-old played well when he came on against Fulham on his debut.
Diogo Dalot
Returning to his preferred flank due to Amorim having options on the left, Diogo Dalot is expected to start at right wing-back following his assist against Fulham.
Casemiro
With Manuel Ugarte ruled out with injury, Casemiro is expected to sit in front of United’s defence as the anchor. He needs to ensure he isn’t overrun in the middle of the pitch.
Bruno Fernandes
There is no denying that Bruno Fernandes is United’s most important player. The Portuguese Magnifico is the first name on the scoresheet and was in the line-up the last time United beat Real Sociedad.
Patrick Dorgu
While suspended for the next two domestic matches, Patrick Dorgu is available for selection in the Europa League.
Joshua Zirkzee
Joshua Zirkzee is doing most things right bar putting the ball in the back of the net. Seems to be growing into his role as one of Amorim’s number 10s.
Alejandro Garnacho
United needed to call upon Alejandro Garnacho from the bench in their last Europa League match against FCSB in Bucharest. The Argentina international needs to start against Real Sociedad.
Rasmus Hojlund
Since Chido Obi is ineligible for the Europa League knockouts, the only option United have up front is Rasmus Hojlund, hoping to end an 18-match goal drought.
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/JFnCgeT