Manchester United’s turbulent campaign has left them with one final shot at redemption – winning the Europa League. With their financial crisis deepening and a disappointing Premier League campaign keeping them outside the European qualification spots, the Red Devils face an all-or-nothing scenario as they prepare to host Real Sociedad in the second leg of their Europa League last-16 tie at Old Trafford.
After a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Spain, Ruben Amorim’s men must now deliver on home soil to keep their European dreams alive. Their season has been plagued by inconsistency, injuries, and internal turmoil, making Europa League success their last hope of securing a spot in next season’s Champions League and avoiding financial setbacks that could further destabilize the club.
United’s Financial Woes Adding Pressure to Europa League Campaign
Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently shed light on the club’s ongoing financial struggles, revealing that severe cost-cutting measures were necessary to prevent the club from “running out of money by Christmas.” The club has suffered cumulative losses of £410 million over the past seven years, largely due to poor transfer decisions and managerial instability.
Amid plans to build a new £2 billion, 100,000-seater stadium to replace Old Trafford, questions remain over how United will finance the project. The club has already made 250 job cuts, with up to 200 more expected in the near future, highlighting the extent of the crisis.
In light of these financial concerns, winning the Europa League would provide much-needed revenue from Champions League qualification, making Thursday’s clash against Real Sociedad a must-win encounter.
Zirkzee’s strike in San Sebastian leaves our #UEL last-16 tie in the balance #MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 12, 2025
Christian Eriksen Acknowledges the Importance of the Tie
United midfielder Christian Eriksen has emphasized the weight of the upcoming fixture, acknowledging that the team is under immense pressure to progress in the tournament.
“It’s massive,” Eriksen said. “We know there’s a lot of pressure on that game, but it also comes with being at this club. You play for trophies, so we have to play well to go through.”
While Real Sociedad have struggled domestically, sitting 11th in La Liga and trailing in their Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Madrid, they remain a dangerous opponent. Their disciplined defensive setup and counter-attacking ability could cause problems for United, especially given the English side’s struggles at the back this season.
Bruno Fernandes last 7 games at Old Trafford
⚽️4⃣
️2⃣ pic.twitter.com/CQ721jM6sV— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) March 11, 2025
Tottenham Also Fighting for Survival in Europa League
Manchester United aren’t the only Premier League side relying on Europa League success to salvage their season. Tottenham Hotspur, who are languishing in 13th place in the league, need a dramatic turnaround at home to AZ Alkmaar after suffering a 1-0 defeat in the first leg.
Rumors are swirling that Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou’s future could be at stake if his side fails to advance. The Australian has endured a difficult campaign, hampered by a long injury list, but with key players returning, expectations are high for a strong response.
Club captain Son Heung-min has urged the entire Spurs squad to step up, saying:
“We need everyone. From the supporters, players, staff, from the club, we need everybody with that game to turn it around. Quality doesn’t bring wins. The games always need mentality, care, and performance. Hard work always matters.”
With Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and record signing Dominic Solanke all back in action, Tottenham will be hoping to mount a comeback and keep their European hopes alive.
Rangers and Athletic Bilbao Aim for Quarter-Finals
Elsewhere, Rangers have one foot in the last eight after their stunning 3-1 away victory over Fenerbahce. However, Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho has warned his players not to celebrate too soon, stating:
“The only thing I tell them is, don’t celebrate too much. Because there is a second match. It’s my only advice.”
Meanwhile, Athletic Bilbao will need to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit against Roma if they want to continue their dream of playing the Europa League final in their home stadium.
Other Teams in Strong Positions
Lazio, Lyon, and Eintracht Frankfurt all secured crucial away victories in the first leg of their respective ties against Viktoria Plzen, FCSB, and Ajax, making them strong favorites to reach the quarter-finals.
As the Europa League reaches its knockout stages, the stakes have never been higher for Manchester United and Tottenham. With financial pressures mounting and domestic struggles continuing, their European campaigns represent the last hope for salvaging their seasons and securing a place among Europe’s elite next year.
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