Prediction: Manchester United win
Best Odds: 8/13
Bookmaker: 888sport
The UEFA Europa League may not have the same kind of allure or appeal as the UEFA Champions League, but it’s still a great competition with a whole lot of history. We’re at the Round of 16 stage now and while not all of the remaining teams will be seen as realistic contenders to win it all, the fact they’re still in the race gives them enough of a chance. Today, we’re going to take a look at what should be a fascinating clash of styles between two old rivals – Manchester United and AC Milan.
Manchester United
Manchester United aren’t quite back to the status of being world beaters and we all know that to be true, but there’s definitely been a shift in their mentality as of late. After three consecutive 0-0 draws it was clear something needed to change, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer seems to have given them the injection of life they need to start feeling a little bit more confident. Whether or not that lasts, though, is a completely different matte altogether.
Team News
Shaw, Rashford, Cavani and van de Beek are all fitness doubts with de Gea being absent due to the birth of his child. The only confirmed injury absences thus far are still Pogba and Jones.
AC Milan
AC Milan were pinpointed as the favourites in the race to win the Serie A title for large portions of the season due to how they’ve been able to maintain a steady stream of consistency in the league. Alas, after slipping behind rivals Inter Milan in the race for the crown, there’s a risk of them capitulating if they can’t get back on the winning trail sooner rather than later. They’ve still made significant progress, but not finishing in the top spot would be seen as a disappointment after everything that’s happened.
Team News
Bennacer, Mandzukic, Bonera, Diaz and Calhanoglu have all been ruled out with Rebic and Hernandez being doubts. The big story, however, is that Zlatan Ibrahimovic faces a late fitness test with the belief being he will not be fit enough to feature.
Factors to Consider
- Man United beat Real Sociedad in the Round of 32 whereas AC Milan beat Red Star Belgrade.
- Man United have won three and drawn three of their last six games.
- AC Milan have won two, drawn three and lost one of their last six games.
- Man United have scored nine goals and conceded one in their last six games.
- AC Milan have scored eight goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
Conclusion
The return of Zlatan should provide AC Milan with the sort of boost they need heading into a game like this but in a general sense, we just think they’re going to be a step behind Manchester United. Ole’s men are coming off the back of a win over rivals Manchester City and right now, we don’t think Milan have what it takes to beat them. We’re going to back a narrow 1-0 win for the Red Devils in what we’re expecting to be a really intriguing encounter.
Prediction: Manchester United win
Best Odds: 8/13
Bookmaker: 888sport
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