Introduction
Manchester United's season has been turbulent, with the club languishing in 14th place in the Premier League. Their domestic struggles have intensified the importance of the Europa League as a potential route to European competition next season. Similarly, Real Sociedad find themselves 11th in La Liga, making this tie crucial for their aspirations. Both sides are acutely aware that progression in this tournament could salvage their seasons.
Recent Form
The Red Devils have managed just one win in their last six matches across all competitions, drawing four and losing one. Their recent 1-1 draw against Arsenal showcased resilience but also highlighted their ongoing challenges. In contrast, Real Sociedad have experienced a dip in form, with three losses, one draw, and two wins in their last six outings. A recent 1-0 home defeat to Sevilla has added to their woes, making this European fixture pivotal for a turnaround.
Team News
Manchester United are grappling with a significant injury crisis. Key players such as Lisandro Martínez and Amad Diallo are sidelined for the remainder of the season. Additionally, Luke Shaw and Mason Mount are out with hamstring issues, while Jonny Evans and Altay Bayindir are also unavailable. Harry Maguire is a doubt while Leny Yoro is touch and go. There is a glimmer of hope with Manuel Ugarte potentially returning to bolster the midfield.
Real Sociedad face their own selection dilemmas. Defender Jon Pacheco is out with a muscle injury, and both CDM Luka Sucic and RB Jon Aramburu are major doubts. However, there is optimism regarding the returns of Odriozola and Zakharyan, who have resumed training and could feature in some capacity.
Stats Watch
- Head-to-Head: In their last five meetings, Manchester United have secured two victories, Real Sociedad one, with two matches ending in draws.
- Defensive Records: United have struggled defensively, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last 11 home matches across all competitions.
- Spanish European Pedigree: Spanish sides have won 9 of the 15 Europa Leagues since 2010. Despite this, Real Sociedad have not progressed beyond the last 16 of a major European competition in the 21st century, highlighting the significance of this tie for the San Sebastian outfit.
- United’s Spanish Habit: This is the 11th tie Manchester United have faced against Spanish opposition since 2020, by far their most (Italian teams 2nd on this metric with 3 ties). United have fared well across these ties, with only Sevilla and Atletico Madrid going undefeated over 90 minutes. Barcelona, Betis, Real Sociedad, Villarreal and Granada have all been beaten over this spell.
With both Manchester United and Real Sociedad viewing the Europa League as a lifeline for European qualification, this second-leg encounter promises to be a fiercely contested affair. The injury-hit squads will need to dig deep, and moments of individual brilliance could very well determine the outcome. United looked strong on the counter last week, and if Sociedad leave themselves vulnerable to this then Old Trafford may well have a European Quarter Final to look forward to this season.