Manchester United prepares to face Real Sociedad in a crucial Europa League Round of 16 second-leg clash at Old Trafford. With the aggregate score locked at 1-1, both teams will be eager to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
First-Leg Recap
The opening encounter in San Sebastian saw United take an early lead through Joshua Zirkzee before Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty to equalize for the hosts. The result leaves everything to play for in the return leg.
What’s at Stake?
United, looking to secure Champions League football for next season, must win to keep their European hopes alive. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad, aiming for their first-ever continental trophy, see this as an opportunity to make history, particularly with the final set to be played at the home of their local rivals, Athletic Club.
Team News
For United, the squad is still missing key players, including Lisandro Martinez, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw, and Harry Maguire.
For Sociedad, Martin Zubimendi is expected to return after recovering from illness, while Luka Sucic remains sidelined with a muscle injury. Aritz Elustondo is suspended, and Jon Pacheco, Alvaro Odriozola, and Arsen Zakharyan are also unavailable.
Confirmed Lineups
Manchester United
Starting XI: Onana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Heaven, Dalot, Casemiro, Fernandes (c), Dorgu, Garnacho, Zirkzee, Hojlund
Substitutes: Harrison, Mee, Amass, Fredricson, Lindelof, Collyer, Eriksen, J. Fletcher, Ugarte, Scanlon.
Real Sociedad
Starting XI: A. Remiro, Aihen, Zubimendi, Zubeldia, Aritz, Oyarzabal, Becker, Take, N. Aguerd, Brais Méndez, Marín
Substitutes: Marrero, Barrene, Óskarsson, Javi López, Olasagasti, Sergio Gómez, H. Traoré, Aramburu, Turrientes, Martín, Betia, Mariezkurrena.
Head-to-Head at Old Trafford
Real Sociedad has struggled in previous visits to Old Trafford, with only one goal scored in three encounters. United secured a narrow 1-0 win in 2013 thanks to an own goal by Inigo Martinez. Their last meeting at the stadium in 2022 saw Sociedad claim a 1-0 victory courtesy of a Brais Mendez penalty.
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025
- Kick-off Time: 20:00 GMT
- Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
- Broadcast: Live on TNT Sports (UK)
- Live Updates: MUTV and United App
Prediction
With home advantage, United will look to capitalize on their strong European record at Old Trafford. However, Sociedad has proven resilient in away fixtures. A tightly contested match is expected, but United’s attacking firepower could give them the edge in securing a place in the quarter-finals.
Can Manchester United maintain their dominance at home, or will Real Sociedad pull off an upset? All eyes will be on Old Trafford for this decisive clash.
