FCSB vs Manchester United: Match preview, what to expect, key players | OneFootball

Manchester United face FCSB in their final fixture of the opening phase in the Europa League at the National Arena on Thursday.

United beat Rangers in their last fixture to boost their chances of finishing in the top eight and avoiding the knockout round play-offs.

With the victory over Rangers, Ruben Amorim became the third United manager to win his first three games in a major European competition.

The Red Devils need a victory against FCSB to guarantee a spot in the round of 16 and avoid the rigours of playing in the play-offs.

FSCB won their last game at Qarabag. They also need a victory to ensure a finish in the top eight.

Match Preview

This is the first meeting between United and FCSB in a competitive fixture.

The Red Devils boast an excellent record against Romanian sides, winning four and losing one of their five meetings.

By contrast, FCSB have a poor record against English opposition, losing their last seven games.

While the Red and Blues have fared badly against English clubs, they have a strong record at home in the competition this season.

United have not done well on their travels, recording one win and two draws in their three away games.

The Red Devils may be without midfielder Manuel Ugarte for this fixture. He suffered a knock against Fulham.

FCSB will be without captain Darius Olaru, Octavian Popescu and Mihai Lixandru.

What to expect

United and FCSB have contrasting styles, which may not change in this encounter.

The Red Devils are a possession-oriented side, boasting an average of 59.6 per cent possession per game. FCSB have 41.7 percent, the fourth lowest in the competition.

Man United have also averaged 18.4 shots per game, second only to Galatasaray. The Romanian side averages 10.3 shots per game.

FCSB have more tackles and interceptions per game than United. They have also kept more clean sheets and conceded fewer goals.

Despite their defensive approach, United must defend well against FCSB to ensure their finish in the top eight.

Key Players

FCSB

Daniel Birligea: The Romanian striker has proved to be a handful for opposition defences, scoring three goals in six Europa League games.

Stefan Tarnovanu: The 24-year-old goalkeeper has four kept clean sheets, the second-best record in the competition.

Man United

Bruno Fernandes: He has been one of the best players in this tournament. He scored the winning goal versus Rangers and has three goal involvements in six games.

Rasmus Hojlund: The Danish striker has been heavily criticised, but he is the joint-leading goalscorer and has the joint-most goal involvements in this competition.

Stats from sofascore.com, transfermarkt.com & manutd.com.