Manchester United vs Rangers Preview
- Draw or United win
- Over 2.5 goals
Old Trafford plays host to a crucial UEFA Europa League (UEL) fixture as Manchester United welcome Rangers, with both teams aiming to solidify their positions in the top-eight standings.
While domestic form has left much to be desired for both sides, the UEL offers a reprieve and a chance to rediscover their confidence.
Manchester United: Searching for Form and Redemption
Under pressure after another Premier League setback, Ruben Amorim faces a mounting challenge to galvanise his squad. Over the past few weeks, it has seemed like several steps forward and several backwards as well for the Manchester outfit.
A 3-1 defeat to Brighton at the weekend left United languishing in the bottom half of the league table. However, their UEL campaign has been a stark contrast, as the Red Devils remain unbeaten (W3, D3) and well-positioned for progression.
Key Concerns
- Home Form: United have lost four of their last five matches at Old Trafford, a worrying trend they’ll need to reverse in Europe.
- Inconsistent Defence: A lack of defensive stability has been a recurring issue, conceding multiple goals in recent fixtures.
- Squad Morale: Amorim’s stinging comments highlight the fragile state of the team’s confidence.
Despite their struggles, United boast an impressive home record in the UEL, losing just once at Old Trafford in the competition since March 2012.
Player to Watch: Bruno Fernandes
The Portuguese playmaker is on the cusp of making his 50th UEL appearance and has a remarkable 37 direct goal contributions (G20, A17) in the competition. Fernandes’ creativity and leadership will be crucial in breaking down a resilient Rangers defence.
Rangers: Fighting for European Glory
Rangers arrive in Manchester off the back of a seven-game unbeaten run across all competitions (W4, D3), but their domestic struggles, particularly a 13-point gap to Celtic, have shifted their focus firmly onto the UEL.
Philippe Clement’s men have shown promise in Europe but remain winless on the road since early December.
Key Concerns
- Away Struggles: Rangers have a poor record on English soil in European competitions (W1, D2, L5), with their last win coming against Leeds in 1992/93.
- Defensive Frailties: While they’ve been resilient in patches, their backline has struggled to consistently keep opposition attackers at bay.
Player to Watch: Leon Balogun
The experienced centre-back could play a pivotal role in keeping United’s attack quiet while also providing a threat at set-pieces. His recent goal and assist against Aberdeen underline his ability to impact games on both ends of the pitch.
Tactical Preview
Manchester United
Amorim is likely to deploy a high-pressing game with a focus on Fernandes orchestrating from midfield. United will aim to exploit Rangers’ defensive gaps through their wide players and seek dominance in possession to control the tempo.
Rangers
Clement may opt for a pragmatic approach, relying on a compact defensive setup and quick counter-attacks. With Balogun marshalling the backline, Rangers will look to frustrate United and capitalise on set-piece opportunities.
Key Match Facts
- United’s Fortress: The Red Devils have lost just one UEL home game since 2012.
- Rangers’ English Woes: Only one win in eight European away games against English sides.
- Bruno Fernandes: Poised to make his 50th UEL appearance with 37 direct goal contributions.
Prediction: United to Edge It
Despite their struggles, Manchester United’s superior quality and formidable home record in the UEL make them favourites. Rangers’ poor away form against English opposition further tilts the scales towards the hosts, but Clement’s side may make it a close contest.
Predicted Score: Manchester United 2-1 Rangers
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Man Utd vs Rangers | UEFA Europa League 2024/25