Real Sociedad will aim to bounce back from a disappointing season by adding to Manchester United’s woes when they face off on Thursday in the Europa League last 16. The Basque side will host United at the Reale Arena before traveling to Old Trafford for the second leg next week.
Sociedad’s struggles continued on Sunday, suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat to La Liga leaders Barcelona, although they were missing several key players and played with 10 men for much of the match. Despite this setback, coach Imanol Alguacil is focused on the upcoming Europa League clash.
For Real Sociedad, the Europa League represents their best chance at silverware this season, and they are also in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, though a 1-0 home loss to Real Madrid in the first leg leaves them with a tough challenge. With the Europa League final set to be held at their rivals Athletic Bilbao’s stadium, the incentive to succeed is high.
Key players like Mikel Oyarzabal, Luka Sucic, and Takefusa Kubo are expected to return after injuries or suspension to strengthen the squad. In contrast, Manchester United are struggling with injuries and lack of form, winning only two of their last six games.
United are unbeaten in the Europa League this season, but the upcoming match at the Reale Arena will be their toughest challenge yet. With the pressure mounting on manager Ruben Amorim and the team’s current struggles, the Europa League remains their best hope of qualifying for European football next season.
A defeat in this crucial tie would add fuel to the ongoing fan protests against the Glazer family, United’s majority owners, who are facing increasing criticism for the club’s financial and sporting decline.
