Europa League Showdown: Real Sociedad vs Manchester United Preview
The UEFA Europa League returns with an exciting clash between Real Sociedad and Manchester United. Both teams are dealing with injury concerns and suspensions, but they will be eager to take a step closer to European glory.
Team News & Lineups
Real Sociedad
The Spanish side will be without Jon Pacheco (muscle) and Arsen Zakharyan (thigh), while Alvaro Odriozola remains doubtful. However, Sheraldo Becker and Takefusa Kubo are set to return after serving domestic suspensions, adding valuable firepower to the squad.
Martin Zubimendi and Jon Aramburu, both absent in the Europa League second-leg victory over Midtjylland due to suspension, are now available. They are expected to slot into their respective roles in midfield and right-back.
Manager Imanol Alguacil faces a key decision in attack—should he recall top scorer Mikel Oyarzabal, who has netted nine goals this season, or continue with Orri Oskarsson, who has been prolific in Europe with four goals in seven appearances?
Predicted Starting XI: Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Aguerd, Munoz; Sucic, Zubimendi, Mendez; Kubo, Oyarzabal, Barrenetxea
Manchester United
Erik ten Hag’s side faces a growing injury crisis. Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte picked up knocks in the FA Cup defeat to Fulham, joining an already long list of absentees, which includes Lisandro Martinez (knee), Amad Diallo (ankle), Kobbie Mainoo (calf), Luke Shaw (hamstring), Jonny Evans (muscle), Mason Mount, Altay Bayindir, and Tom Heaton (all unspecified).
17-year-old forward Chido Obi-Martin is also unavailable, as he was not registered in United’s Europa League squad last month. However, Toby Collyer has been called up to the traveling squad and could feature in midfield.
United’s attack will likely see Alejandro Garnacho link up with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, both of whom are struggling for form. With Maguire out, Victor Lindelof is expected to start alongside Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro in defense, though Noussair Mazraoui could also move into a back-three role. January signing Patrick Dorgu is set to make his European debut.
Predicted Starting XI: Onana; De Ligt, Lindelof, Yoro; Dalot, Fernandes, Casemiro, Dorgu; Garnacho, Hojlund, Zirkzee
Tactical Overview
Real Sociedad will likely rely on their well-structured midfield and quick wingers to break down United’s makeshift defense. Kubo and Oyarzabal’s creativity could pose a real threat, while Zubimendi will look to control the tempo.
For Manchester United, the absence of key players could force a more conservative approach. Fernandes and Casemiro will be pivotal in midfield, while Garnacho’s pace could be key to unlocking Sociedad’s defense.
Prediction
Both teams have their fair share of injury concerns, but Real Sociedad’s home advantage and greater squad cohesion could tilt the tie in their favor. United’s attacking struggles may continue, and Sociedad could exploit their defensive frailties.
Score Prediction: Real Sociedad 2-1 Manchester United
