MATCH PREVIEW: Sevilla FC vs. Manchester United (Europa League Semifinal)

Manchester United continue their quest for silverware as they play Sevilla FC on Sunday in the Europa League semi-finals in Cologne, Germany.

United’s last piece of silverware was in 2017 with then-manager José Mourinho, so the opportunity is there for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to get his first trophy since taking over and to lay the groundwork for future success.

Sevilla have fared very well in past Europa League matches, and will be riding on a 19-game unbeaten streak across all competitions. Julen Lopetegui has witnessed his side pick up seven wins from their last eight during that run.

Expect United to start the identical team as they did against Copenhagen. The only question will be in the keeper position. Sergio Romero should be the keeper of record, but United have brought in De Gea as the importance of games grows.

That would mean a return for Nemanja Matic in the middle of the park alongside Paul Pogba, potentially dropping Fred down to the bench, while Victor Lindelof may replace Eric Bailly in the heart of the United defense.

Fernandes, Mason Greenwood, Anthony Martial, and Marcus Rashford have chalked up a remarkable 64 goals and 23 assists between them this season, but the quartet will be in for a difficult night against Sevilla.

Both teams have qualified for next year’s Champions League so the pressure is off and both teams will be rested and ready to play.

The winner on Sunday will meet either Inter Milan or Shakhtar Donetsk in the August 21 final, with the other two semi-finalists going head-to-head on Monday evening.

Sevilla possible starting lineup:

Bounou; Navas, Carlos, Kounde, Reguilon; Fernando, Jordan, Banega; Suso, En-Nesyri, Ocampos

Manchester United possible starting lineup:

Romero; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Maguire, Williams; Pogba, Matic; Greenwood, Fernandes, Rashford; Martial

mm
About Vince Rosetta 241 Articles
A life long Manchester United fan based in the US.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*