Manchester United will aim to return to winning ways as they host Real Sociedad during the first leg of the Europa League last-16 at the Reale Arena on Thursday night.
Erik ten Hag's Manchester United were left with a disappointing FA Cup exit on Sunday following their defeat to Fulham on penalties at Old Trafford. With the UEFA Europa League being the only remaining option for them to win silverware this season, United will be seeking to achieve a strong result in Spain.
United earned a place in the Europa League round of 16 after finishing third in the newly structured league phase, earning five wins and three draws. Real Sociedad, on the other hand, earned a place in this round after thrashing FC Midtjylland with a 7-3 aggregate victory in the play-off round.
Manchester United Team News and Injury Updates
Ahead of the match against Real Sociedad, Manchester United have announced their 18-man squad, confirming that both Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte are ruled out due to injury. Their unavailability might force Ten Hag to make tactical adjustments, particularly in defense and midfield.
With Maguire missing, Victor Lindelöf is likely to step in alongside Lisandro Martínez at the back. In midfield, Casemiro could be paired with Kobbie Mainoo or Scott McTominay, leading to a tactical reshuffle.
Predicted Manchester United Starting XI vs Real Sociedad (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper:
- André Onana
Defenders:
- Diogo Dalot
- Victor Lindelöf
- Lisandro Martínez
- Luke Shaw
Midfielders:
- Casemiro
- Kobbie Mainoo
Attacking Midfielders:
- Antony
- Bruno Fernandes (C)
- Marcus Rashford
Striker:
- Rasmus Højlund
Tactical Analysis: Key Battles in the Europa League Clash
1️⃣ Casemiro & Mainoo vs Real Sociedad’s Midfield Press
With Manuel Ugarte out, Casemiro will be playing as the defense anchor, with Mainoo's ball-forward movement of the ball in difficult situations being the clinching factor while against Sociedad's high-pressing defense.
2️⃣ Marcus Rashford's Speed against Real Sociedad's Defense
The Spanish side uses a high defensive line, which can be exposed to Rashford's pace on the counter. His ability to play through gaps can be a game-changer for Manchester United.
3️⃣ Bruno Fernandes' Creativity
As Manchester United's playmaker, Fernandes will need to unlock an organized Real Sociedad defense, providing crucial key passes to Højlund and Rashford.
4️⃣ Defensive Stability Without Maguire
With Maguire sitting out, Lindelöf and Martínez will need to cope with the attacking threat of Mikel Oyarzabal and Takefusa Kubo. Their defensive positioning will be paramount in maintaining Manchester United with a solid framework.
Key Players to Watch
- Marcus Rashford: A key player of Manchester United, his pace will be the deciding factor in unlocking Real Sociedad's defense.
- Bruno Fernandes: The Portuguese midfielder will control the pace and provide goal-scoring opportunities.
- André Onana: The goalkeeper will be vital in preventing Real Sociedad's attacking threats.
- Lisandro Martínez: His aggressive defending and ball-playing from the back will be vital for United's defense.
Match Prediction: Real Sociedad vs Manchester United
With Manchester United looking to bounce back after their FA Cup elimination, they will be highly inspired. However, Real Sociedad are a well-drilled side who are capable of causing trouble to United's defense. The game is expected to be a closely contested affair, but Manchester United's attacking fire power may be the clincher.
✅ Expected Score: Real Sociedad 1-2 Manchester United
- Manchester United vs Real Sociedad preview
- Manchester United predicted line-up
- Europa League round of 16
- Real Sociedad vs Manchester United team news
- Manchester United latest news
- Man United Europa League squad
- Manchester United injury updates
- Bruno Fernandes key player
- Marcus Rashford goal threat
- Man United Europa League hopes
