Manchester United have a golden chance to salvage their season by proceeding to the last 16 Europa tie as they welcome home Real Sociedad for the second leg. The match schedules for Thursday at Emirates with kickoff at 11 pm.
The Red Devils thrashed Sociedad 4-0 in the first leg and expected to advance to the next round with minimal difficulty.
Ole Gunnar might be looking to rotate the squad this fixture even after getting a scare during their clash with Newcastle. Despite an inspired performance from relegation-threatened Magpies, Bruno Fernandez, Marcus Rashford and Daniel James came through to end in a 3-1 win.
Solskkaer’s side is currently unbeaten in seven matches across all competitions and have won five in that run. They have failed to score only once in their 11 matches at Old Trafford. Finding the back of the net at least three times in their last four on home soil.
United have not managed to string three wins consecutively across all competitions since December. Even though a repeat of last week’s 4-0 thrashing is unlikely, Gunnar will be looking to make changes to their starting XI.
Sociedad was considered favorites for the La Liga title race for the first half of the season. However, a run of fixtures leaves the side battling between domestic and European commitments. The Spanish side responded with the same scoreline against Alaves.
Manchester United vs Real Sociedad Head to Head
Both sides have three matches against each other, with Manchester United taking two wins while one game ending in a draw. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
Manchester United 3-1 Newcastle
Real Sociedad 0-4 Man United
West Brom 1-1 Man United
Man United 1-0 West Ham
Man United 3-3 Everton
Away
Real Sociedad 4-0 Deportivo Alaves
Real Sociedad 0-4 Man United
Getafe 0-1 Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad 4-1 Cadiz
Villarreal 1-1 Real Sociedad
Manchester United Team News
It remains a doubt whether Ole Gunnar might risk Scott McTominay, Van da Beek and Edinson Cavani, who are shaking off various injuries. It might have chances for Brandon Williams, Nemanja Matic and Juan Mata.
Real Sociedad Team News
Sociedad remainss without two defenders for the second leg as Robin Le Normand is banned after accumulating bookings. Joseba Zaldua came off the pitch with a hamstring injury against United.
Prediction and Odds
United will not go all the way this Thursday, especially with a heavy squad for rotation and Chelsea on the weekend.
Manchester United Win
Goals Under 2.5
Most Goals: 2H
