Real Sociedad vs Man United: Match preview, what to expect, key players | OneFootball

Manchester United face Real Sociedad in the Europa League round of 16 first-leg at Reale Arena today.

The Red Devils qualified automatically for this stage of the competition, finishing the league phase unbeaten and in third place in the standings.

Sociedad finished outside the automatic qualification places and had to beat Midtjylland in the knockout round play-off to qualify.

The two sides must win this competition to qualify for next season’s Champions League, as both are unlikely to qualify for the tournament through the league.

Match preview

United have a superior head-to-head record over Sociedad, winning three, drawing two and losing one of their previous meetings against them.

However, Sociedad have won all their home games since losing to Anderlecht on their patch in the competition’s opening game.

United’s preparation for the game has been affected by the injuries to centre-back Harry Maguire and midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

However, Toby Collyer is back to full fitness after missing the last three games due to a knock.

Sociedad can count on midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who was substituted in their La Liga clash with Barcelona last weekend.

Japanese forward Takefusa Kubo is also back in contention, having missed the Barcelona fixture.

What to expect

Given United’s performance in this competition and Sociedad’s style of play, this should be an intriguing clash.

United have been the most dominant team, averaging more possession per game, while Sociedad are a possession-oriented side.

They are also an offensive side, scoring 20 goals, four more than United, although they have played two more games due to their involvement in the play-offs.

Key players

Man United

Bruno Fernandes: He is United’s best player and one of the standouts in this competition. He has averaged 3.7 key passes per game, the second-highest in the competition.

Noussair Mazroui: The Moroccan has starred in the Red Devils’ defence. He ranks first in the United squad for tackles per game and third in the competition.

Real Sociedad

Takefusa Kubo: The Japan international is one of the Spanish side’s best offensive players. He has four goal involvements in this competition.

Brais Mendez: He is an influential player for Sociedad. He ranks first for most goal involvements and key passes per game.

Stats from sofascore.com.