An official looks on during the UEFA Europa League last 16 second leg football match between Manchester United and Linzer ASK at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on August 5, 2020. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)
Manchester United begin their Europa League adventure on Thursday evening when they welcome Real Sociedad to Old Trafford.
The Red Devils have bounced back emphatically after back-to-back defeats to Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford in the Premier League, winning four games on the spin. They overcame league leaders Arsenal 3-1 at home on Sunday and moved to fifth on the table.
Now, Erik ten Hag and co. shift their attention to Europe as they embrace a tough test from Spanish side Real Sociedad.
Anthony Martial is still unavailable for Manchester United. He has been sidelined for the last two weeks with an Achilles injury and is not yet ready to get back into team training, Erik ten Hag stated in his pre-match presser.
Goalkeeper
David de Gea is the first-choice goalkeeper but could sit this one out, with summer signing Martin Dubravka starting. Dubravka will be keen to impress in what will be his first start for Man United.
Defence
Ten Hag is likely to ring in the changes in defence, particularly as he looks to give some key players a rest. Skipper Harry Maguire will be recalled into the Man United lineup after being a substitute in their last four league games. Maguire could line up alongside Victor Lindelof at the heart of the Red Devils’ backline.
Luke Shaw should get the nod over Tyrell Malacia at left-back in the Man United lineup against Real Sociedad, but with Aaron Wan-Bissaka doubtful, Diogo Dalot should continue at right-back.
Midfield
Casemiro is primed for his full debut on Thursday against a club he knows well from his playing days at Real Madrid. The Brazilian will be chomping at the bit to prove his class. He is likely to partner his compatriot Fred in United’s engine room.
Bruno Fernandes is the glue that keeps United ticking over, and the Portuguese’s passing range, movement and vision will be key in unlocking the Real Sociedad defence. He will continue in his favoured no.10 role in midfield.
Attack
Anthony Elanga should be in the Man United lineup against Real Sociedad, taking up the left-wing berth, with Jadon Sancho getting some rest. Antony, who scored on his debut against Arsenal on Sunday, will likely continue on the right flank.
Cristiano Ronaldo is braced for his first start since the Brentford game. The Portuguese superstar will replace Marcus Rashford up top as he hopes to open his account for the season. Rashford, Sancho and Alejandro Garnacho will be backup offensive options for Ten Hag.
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