Manchester United vs Bodo/Glimt Preview

• United to win
• Over 1.5 goals

For Manchester United, their UEFA Europa League journey continues at Old Trafford as they face Norwegian champions Bodø/Glimt in a pivotal group-stage encounter.

With both teams vying for qualification, this match carries significant stakes for United’s new manager Ruben Amorim, who seeks his first win in European competition with the Red Devils.

Manchester United: Adapting to Change Under Ruben Amorim

Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United tenure began with a 1-1 draw against Ipswich, leaving the Portuguese manager with much to ponder as his team adjusts to his tactical demands.

United’s UEL campaign has been equally underwhelming, with just one win in four matches (D3), placing them outside the automatic qualification spots.

Old Trafford, however, offers a beacon of hope. The Red Devils have lost just one of their last 26 home UEL matches (W19, D6) and are unbeaten in their last five games across all competitions on home soil (W4, D1).

Their home form, combined with Amorim’s tactical acumen, makes them strong favorites to claim three vital points.

Amad Diallo has been a bright spot in recent weeks. Rejuvenated under Amorim, the young winger has delivered crucial contributions, including a brace against PAOK on matchday four and an assist in Amorim’s debut.

His creativity and energy could be pivotal as United look to overcome their goal-scoring struggles in Europe.

Bodø/Glimt: Aiming to Make History

Bodø/Glimt arrive in Manchester in good form, sitting a point ahead of United in the group standings (W2, D1, L1). The Norwegian champions are also on the cusp of securing their fourth domestic title in five seasons, underscoring their consistency and confidence.

Despite their domestic success, Bodø’s record against English teams in Europe is far from inspiring.

They’ve lost both previous meetings, conceding five goals without reply against Arsenal in the UEL two seasons ago. Their away record in this competition is similarly mixed, with just one win in their last seven UEL road trips (W1, D2, L4).

However, recent form on the road has been more encouraging. Bodø are unbeaten in their last five away games across all competitions (W2, D3), keeping three clean sheets during that run. Midfield maestro Patrick Berg has been instrumental, scoring in three successive matches, and will be key to Bodø’s chances of pulling off an upset.

Key Battles

Amad Diallo vs. Bodø’s Defense

Amad Diallo’s resurgence under Ruben Amorim has been a major positive for Manchester United. His pace and creativity on the wing will test Bodø’s defensive resilience, which has been a strength in their recent away games.

Patrick Berg vs. United’s Midfield

Patrick Berg, Bodø’s dynamic midfielder, has been in excellent form, finding the net in his last three matches. His ability to break forward and contribute offensively could pose problems for United, who will need midfield stalwarts like Casemiro or Scott McTominay to neutralize his threat.

Tactical Analysis

Manchester United are likely to dominate possession, using their attacking width to stretch Bodø’s defense. Amorim’s system, which encourages fluidity and overlapping play, could exploit Bodø’s vulnerabilities on the flanks.

Bodø, on the other hand, will rely on a compact defensive structure and quick counterattacks. Their ability to keep clean sheets recently suggests they’ll aim to frustrate United and capitalize on set pieces or mistakes in transition.

Prediction: Manchester United 2-0 Bodø/Glimt

While Bodø/Glimt’s form and resilience on the road make them a tricky opponent, Manchester United’s home record and the quality in their squad should see them through. Expect Ruben Amorim’s side to control the game and secure a hard-fought win, with Amad Diallo likely to play a starring role once again.

This victory could provide United with the momentum needed to reignite their European campaign and strengthen Amorim’s position as he seeks to impose his philosophy on the team.

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Man Utd vs Bodø/Glimt | UEFA Europa League 2024/25