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Having secured a 1-1 draw in San Sebastian during the first leg, the Red Devils know victory of any description will be enough to reach the quarter-finals. The Europa League remains United’s only shot at silverware this season and Ruben Amorim will be desperate to avoid an early exit this week.
With injuries exacerbating United’s issues, Amorim is limited in his team selection for such an important fixture against the out-of-form Real Sociedad.
Here is how the Red Devils could line up for the clash.
GK: Andre Onana – The Cameroon international performed admirably against La Real last Thursday and will need to be similarly stoic during the second leg. He could even be needed for a penalty shootout.
CB: Noussair Mazraoui – Mazraoui was utilised in a wider function against Arsenal on Sunday but could plug the gap left by injuries to Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro against Real Sociedad.
CB: Matthijs de Ligt – The Dutch defender will have to be on high alert to stifle Euro 2024 winner Mikel Oyarzabal, the Spaniard scoring from the spot during a lively first leg performance.
CB: Victor Lindelof – Ayden Heaven impressed against former employers Arsenal at the weekend but is unlikely to muscle into the starting lineup ahead of Mazraoui or Lindelof.
RM: Diogo Dalot – Dalot came under fire from teammate Rasmus Hojlund during last week’s trip to Spain and he will be searching for redemption against La Real this time around.
CM: Bruno Fernandes – Fernandes was once again United’s saving grace at the weekend, with his brilliant free kick offering the Red Devils the lead against the run of play. The skipper will be key in progression to the last eight.
CM: Casemiro – The Brazilian was surprisingly impenetrable …
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