Manchester United vs Real Sociedad Preview

• Draw or United win
• Both teams to score

Manchester United return to Old Trafford for the decisive second leg of their UEFA Europa League (UEL) last-16 tie against Real Sociedad, with the tie finely poised at 1-1 after the first leg in Spain.

The Red Devils hold a slight advantage thanks to their strong home record in the competition, but Sociedad will be desperate to end their recent poor form and cause an upset.

With both teams struggling domestically, progression in the UEL could define their seasons. Can United maintain their unbeaten European run and secure a quarter-final spot, or will Sociedad rekindle their form and stun the Red Devils at Old Trafford? Here’s an in-depth preview of this must-win clash.

Manchester United’s European Pedigree at Old Trafford

United’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League over the weekend was overshadowed by mass protests against the club’s ownership, but on the pitch, Ruben Amorim’s men showed grit and resilience to hold the title challengers.

A similar story unfolded in the first leg against Real Sociedad, where United took the lead and had the better chances, only to let their advantage slip.

Still, the Red Devils remain unbeaten in Europe this season (W5, D4) and have been dominant at home in the UEL. Old Trafford may not be a fortress anymore, but United have still lost just one of their last 28 home games in this competition (W21, D6).

Ironically, that sole defeat came against Sociedad in September 2022, proving that the Spanish side is capable of an upset.

With their Premier League top-four hopes fading, Amorim’s side cannot afford to exit Europe at this stage. United will be looking to capitalise on their home advantage and seal their place in the quarter-finals.

Real Sociedad’s Struggles and a Season Hanging in the Balance

Sociedad’s season is unravelling, with their 1-0 loss to Sevilla on Sunday leaving them far off the pace for European qualification in La Liga.

That defeat extended their winless streak to four games in all competitions (D1, L3), putting pressure on manager Imanol Alguacil to deliver a result here.

Sociedad’s away form is a major concern, as they have lost five of their last six matches on the road (W1). Additionally, their record in England does not inspire confidence, having won just one of four European trips to English soil (D1, L2).

That said, their sole victory came at Old Trafford in 2022, and they will need to replicate that performance to reach their first European quarter-final since 1988/89.

With their domestic season faltering, Sociedad will throw everything at this game, knowing that their UEL campaign could be their last route to success this season.

Head-to-Head Record: United’s Slight Edge but Sociedad’s Past Success

• First leg result: Real Sociedad 1-1 Manchester United
• Manchester United’s UEL home record: One loss in last 28 games (W21, D6)
• Real Sociedad’s European record in England: W1, D1, L2
• Last Sociedad win at Old Trafford: 1-0 (2022/23 UEL group stage)

United’s strong home record in the UEL gives them the advantage, but Sociedad have already proven they can win at Old Trafford. Given the close nature of the first leg, this game could go down to the wire.

Key Players to Watch

Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United)

The young Argentine has gone 23 games without scoring for United, but his last goal came in the UEL.

He also provided the assist for United’s goal in the first leg and will be eager to make an impact in front of the home crowd. If Garnacho can find his finishing touch, he could be a decisive factor in this tie.

Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad)

Sociedad’s captain and talisman, Oyarzabal, became the club’s all-time leading European scorer (11 goals) after netting the equaliser from the penalty spot in the first leg.

With his experience and leadership, he will be key to Sociedad’s hopes of securing a famous result at Old Trafford.

Prediction: Will United Get the Job Done?

Both teams come into this match struggling for consistency, but Manchester United’s strong UEL home record gives them a slight edge. Sociedad’s poor away form and lack of confidence make it difficult to back them, despite their shock win at Old Trafford in 2022.

Expect United to control possession and create more chances, but Sociedad have the quality to make it difficult. If the Spanish side can stay compact and strike on the counter, this could be a nervy night for the Red Devils.

Predicted Score: Manchester United 2-1 Real Sociedad (United win 3-2 on aggregate)

United should have just enough to secure the win and advance to the quarter-finals, but Sociedad won’t make it easy.

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