Prediction: Manchester United win
Best Odds: 23/20
Bookmaker: 888sport
The UEFA Europa League is back in our lives this week as we get closer and closer to the nitty-gritty of this season’s competition. The majority of teams left in the mix will probably fancy their chances of winning the whole thing but when it comes to outright contenders, AC Milan and Manchester United will be two of the clear favourites. Tomorrow night, after a first leg draw, the two will meet once again with the victor securing a spot in the last eight.
AC Milan
Their Serie A title push may be edging towards disaster but this has still been a season of progression for AC Milan. Just a few years ago many wondered whether or not they’d ever be able to ascend to the lofty heights they were once at but in the present day, they’re really going after a return to Champions League football. Whether or not they get it remains to be seen but one thing is for sure – they shouldn’t be counted out in this tie.
Team News
Mandzukic has been ruled out with Bennacer and Romagnoli being fitness doubts, although the big concern is whether the returning Ibrahimovic will be able to start.
Manchester United
The glory days of years gone by haven’t quite returned to Old Trafford but with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at the helm, it does feel as if there’s a movement building in Manchester. The club is starting to come across as a real force and even though it’s highly unlikely they’ll be able to catch rivals Manchester City in the title race, a piece of silverware is still very attainable if they can stay focused and stay composed.
Team News
Mata and Jones are the two confirmed injury absences for United but there are a few rays of hope. Pogba, van de Beek and Cavani are all hoping to be fit enough to play some kind of role with de Gea also being an option after his return last week.
Factors to Consider
- In the first leg, Man United and AC Milan played out a 1-1 draw.
- AC Milan have won two, drawn three and lost one of their last six games.
- Man United have won two and drawn four of their last six games.
- AC Milan have scored seven goals and conceded five in their last six games.
- Man United have scored four goals and conceded one in their last six games.
Conclusion
The big factor in this game is going to be United’s defensive stability. The only side they’ve conceded to across their last six games is Milan and while that should prove to be quite the motivating factor for the Italians, United know where they went wrong in the first leg and they know what they need to fix. We think they’ll be able to edge out a 1-0 win on the night that’ll hand them a 2-1 aggregate success and a place in the quarter-finals.
Prediction: Manchester United win
Best Odds: 23/20
Bookmaker: 888sport
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