Manchester United have announced their line-up for tonight’s crucial game with Real Sociedad.
After last week’s 1-1 draw in Spain, Ruben Amorim knows a victory tonight is the only way to salvage anything from a hugely disapponting campaign for the club, and similarly for himself. United can qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League; failure to do so will result in catastrophic short-term financial repercussions for the club.
Last week, Joshua Zirkzee looked to have given his side a well-earned victory – but Bruno Fernandes conceded a late penalty, and the 1-1 draw has left the tie firmly in the balance for a side who have struggled to win at home this season.
“Mason Mount is too soon,” Amorim confirmed ahead of the game. “Leny is out. Harry Maguire cannot play this one. I hope to have him for Sunday. Manu is in the squad and I think there is no-one returning.”
Chido Obi is ineligible due to not being registered for the competition. Altay Bayindir, Tom Heaton, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo and Amad Diallo are all also missing through injury.
Line up
Onana
Heaven Lindelof Mazraoui
Dalot Casemiro Fernandes Dorgu
Garnacho Hojlund Zirkzee
Tonight will be the eighth time United have faced Real Sociedad. Although the Reds have the upper hand, games between the sides have traditionally been close, particularly at Old Trafford. In fact, in the three previous meetings in Manchester, United have failed to score a goal themselves – Inigo Martinez’s own goal two minutes into the first-ever clash at Old Trafford in October 2013 won the game for the hosts. The following match, in February 2021, was a 0-0 draw, thanks to a missed penalty in the 13th minute by Mikel Oyarzaba.
However, on their last trip to Old Trafford, Real Sociedad won 1-0 – Brais Mendez making no mistake with his penalty, controversially awarded, in Erik Ten Hag’s first-ever home European game as manager. That match was remembered for taking place just two hours after news broke that Queen Elizabeth had passed away.
The match is broadcast live on TNT Sports and kicks off at 8pm.