Victory against Lyon on Thursday evening would move Ruben Amorim and Manchester United one step closer to an unlikely tilt at silverware. However, defeat in this Europa League quarter-final will confirm a season without European football for the one-time perennial giants.
The financial ramifications of a campaign without a continental representation are potentially hazardous in an Ineos rebuild, with their former Sporting chief in dire need of reinforcements.
A dismal domestic campaign has accompanied significant changes in the North West, with United rooted in 14th position in the Premier League and a disgruntled supporter base struggling to adapt to its surroundings.
But following a 2-2 draw in France, the United faithful hold a hint of promise against a side that has never managed a competitive victory against the 2016-17 champions.
Although there are ample reasons to feel unconfident, Amorim’s men still retain their unbeaten European season, and under the lights of a partisan Old Trafford, a 12th man can offer some much-needed assistance.
Manchester United Team News
Having seen his efforts rewarded with a fine strike in Lyon, Joshua Zirkzee has been ruled out for the remainder of the season following an injury sustained against Newcastle.
The news comes at a terrible time for the Dutch international, with his recent performances offering a glimmer of hope in the final third.
“Joshua is out for the season,” Amorim told the media. “So he’s not going to play more this season. Let’s prepare him for the next one.
“It’s tough, especially in this moment. I think he’s improving in all aspects of the game, so it’s hard for any player to stop, but this is football, and he has to be ready now to recover.”
Andre Onana was absent against The Magpies following an evening to forget at Parc Olympique Lyonnais, with Altay Bayindir replacing him at the weekend.
However, the Cameroon international will return in goal against the Ligue 1 side following categorical confirmation from Amorim. Unfortunately, Matthijs de Ligt and Ayden Heaven both remain unavailable for selection.
“Matta [de Ligt] is going to return still this season,” added Amorim.
“Ayden [Heaven] is out for this game – he had a small issue in the same spot during training, a contact with a teammate.
“Jonny Evans is returning to the training but is not available for this game, and some other players that we have to manage the minutes. Amad is not ready for this month, but we hope to have Amad still for this season.”
This will be the third competitive encounter at Old Trafford, with United winning both previous matches against their French rivals.
However, Lyon are unbeaten in their previous 12 away Europa League outings (won nine, drawn three) and lost one of their last nine against English opposition (won four, drawn four).
Interestingly, United are unbeaten across 11 Europa League fixtures this season (won six, drawn five). The last time the Red Devils managed to stay unbeaten in as many European games, they reached the Champions League final in 2010-11.
Bruno Fernandes inspired a memorable 4-1 mauling of Real Sociedad in their round of 16 tie in the North West. Few would bet against the Portuguese captain playing a pivotal role once more.
Are you confident about this must-win fixture for Manchester United against Lyon on Thursday evening?
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