Manchester United vs PAOK Preview

• Draw or United win
• Over 1.5 goals

Manchester United welcome PAOK to Old Trafford for a must-win UEFA Europa League fixture as interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy aims to turn around United’s European fortunes before Rúben Amorim’s arrival.

United are still searching for their first win in this Europa League campaign after drawing all three of their group matches so far, while visitors PAOK find themselves in a similar position, needing points to stay in contention.

Manchester United: Searching for a Spark in Europe

Van Nistelrooy’s stint as interim manager got off to a thrilling start with a 5-2 victory over Leicester but was followed by a lacklustre 1-1 draw against Chelsea.

United’s struggles in the Premier League have carried over into the Europa League, where they’ve drawn each of their three matches, failing to hold onto leads.

United’s last win in Europe was a year ago, and they’re now on a six-game winless streak in European competition (D4, L2), which they’ll hope to end against PAOK.

With just 12 points from their first ten league games—United’s worst start since 1986/87—the pressure is on to deliver a result.

However, Van Nistelrooy’s ability to restore some energy into the squad could be critical as they face a PAOK side that is vulnerable on the road.

PAOK: An Uphill Task at Old Trafford

PAOK arrive in Manchester on the back of a challenging UEL campaign, having collected just one point from their three games so far (D1, L2).

Their form has been mixed across all competitions, with only three wins in their last nine matches (D2, L4), although they have shown recent improvement with two consecutive victories in domestic play.

PAOK have been more reliable on the road domestically this season, losing only once in ten away games across all competitions (W7, D2).

However, their UEL away form has been disappointing, with five losses in their last six main-draw away matches. They last recorded a UEL away victory in October 2018, so a win at Old Trafford would represent a significant upset.

Key Players to Watch

Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United)

Mazraoui has been versatile for United, featuring in midfield against Fenerbahçe in their last UEL outing but likely to return to his preferred full-back role where he impressed against Chelsea.

Known for his attacking contribution in the closing stages, Mazraoui’s last three club goals have all come after the 70th minute, making him a player to watch if United need a late boost.

Shola Shoretire (PAOK)

A Manchester United academy graduate, Shoretire returned from injury with a goal in the Greek Cup last week. His familiarity with Old Trafford and recent form make him a potential impact player off the bench, as he looks to make his mark against his former club.

Tactical Insights: United’s Attack vs PAOK’s Road Resilience

Manchester United will need to assert control early, especially with Mazraoui and the likes of Marcus Rashford likely playing key roles in advancing play down the wings.

United’s ability to press forward and maintain defensive stability will be essential to securing their first win in the group.

PAOK, meanwhile, will likely aim to stay compact and look for opportunities to counter. With Shoretire’s pace and technical ability, they may target United’s backline when pushing forward, although they’ll need to keep a disciplined shape to avoid being overrun by United’s attack.

Final Thoughts

This Europa League clash is critical for both Manchester United and PAOK, with each team looking to revive their chances of progressing.

United will be eager to break their European winless streak and build some momentum before Amorim takes charge, while PAOK have the motivation to secure a rare away win in the competition.

With home advantage and added pressure, United appear to have the upper hand, but PAOK’s resilience on the road could make for a closer contest than expected.

Will United finally end their European winless run, or can PAOK pull off a surprise at Old Trafford?

For more info on this game,you may also visit:
Man Utd vs PAOK | UEFA Europa League 2024/25