Manchester United prepare for a crucial Europa League showdown against Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt this Thursday at Old Trafford.
With new head coach Ruben Amorim making his home debut, this fixture holds added significance for United as they aim to build momentum under his guidance.
For Bodo/Glimt, the trip offers a chance to make a statement, though their eyes may be partly set on securing their domestic league title.
Ruben Amorim’s tenure at Manchester United got off to a mixed start with a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town in the league. While the result was underwhelming, Amorim’s tactical approach, featuring a three-at-the-back formation reminiscent of his Sporting CP days, showed glimpses of potential.
His first home game at Old Trafford will be a test not just of his strategies but of his ability to inspire a team still finding its identity this season.
Players like Marcus Rashford, who found the net last weekend, and Bruno Fernandes, who continues to be a creative engine, will play pivotal roles in shaping Amorim’s initial successes.
Bodo/Glimt have been a revelation in recent years, famously thrashing Jose Mourinho’s Roma 6-1 in 2021. However, with their domestic league title on the line this weekend, manager Kjetil Knutsen faces a balancing act. A win over Lillestrom on Sunday will guarantee their second successive title, meaning squad rotation could be on the cards for their trip to Old Trafford.
Despite potential changes, Bodo/Glimt possess quality in players like Ulrik Saltnes and Ola Solbakken, who can trouble United’s defense if given the opportunity. However, injuries to key players like Samuel Burakovsky and the absence of others like Daniel Bassi might hinder their ability to compete at full strength.
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Man Utd vs. Bodo/Glimt: Team News and Predicted Lineups
Manchester United
Amorim has seen several players return from injury recently, including Luke Shaw and Mason Mount, both of whom made substitute appearances last weekend. Tyrell Malacia and Kobbie Mainoo are also back in contention.
Meanwhile, Lisandro Martinez is set to feature after missing the Ipswich game, while Victor Lindelof, Leny Yoro, and Harry Maguire remain unavailable.
Amorim is likely to stick with his 3-4-2-1 formation. Marcus Rashford is expected to lead the attack again, with support from Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Hojlund.
Predicted Man Utd Lineup (3-4-2-1): Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martinez; Diallo, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dalot; Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund.
Bodo/Glimt
For the visitors, injuries and ineligibilities will limit their options. Key figures like Samuel Burakovsky, Syver Skeide, and Gaute Vetti are sidelined, while Omar Elabdellaoui and Daniel Bassi are unavailable for Europa League duty. This could force Knutsen to rely on his squad’s depth.
Predicted Bodo/Glimt Lineup (4-3-3): Haikin; Sjovold, Bjortuft, Nielsen, Bjorkan; Evjen, Berg, Saltnes; Zinckernagel, Hogh, Hauge.
Key Battles to Watch
- Marcus Rashford vs. Bodo/Glimt Defense
Rashford’s pace and finishing ability will be a constant threat for the Norwegian side. Bodo/Glimt’s backline must stay disciplined to contain United’s star forward. - Casemiro’s Control in Midfield
The experienced Brazilian will look to dominate the midfield, breaking up Bodo/Glimt’s counters and distributing the ball to United’s creative players. - Saltnes and Berg’s Influence
Bodo/Glimt’s midfield duo will need to step up if they’re to have any chance of pulling off an upset. Their ability to transition quickly and exploit United’s defensive gaps will be key.
Form Guide
Manchester United (Last 5 Matches)
- Ipswich 1-1 Man Utd
- Man Utd 3-0 Leicester
- Man Utd 2-0 PAOK
- Man Utd 1-1 Chelsea
- Man Utd 5-2 Leicester
Bodo/Glimt (Last 5 Matches)
- Odd 0-2 Bodo/Glimt
- Bodo/Glimt 2-2 Fredrikstad
- Bodo/Glimt 1-2 Qarabag
- Molde 3-3 Bodo/Glimt
- Bodo/Glimt 2-3 Rosenborg
Score Prediction
Amorim will be eager to leave a positive impression on the Old Trafford faithful, and this fixture provides a perfect opportunity. While Bodo/Glimt’s league priorities may lead to a weakened lineup, their past ability to surprise bigger teams cannot be overlooked.
Manchester United, however, have enough quality to secure a comfortable win as they look to build momentum under their new coach.
Prediction: Manchester United 2-0 Bodo/Glimt
How to Watch Man Utd vs. Bodo/Glimt
Date: Thursday, 28 November
Kick-off: 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
Location: Old Trafford, Manchester
TV Channels:
- UK: TNT Sports 2, TNT Sports Ultimate, discovery+
- US: Paramount+, ViX
- Canada: DAZN Canada
