Manchester United continue their Europa League campaign as they take on Real Sociedad in the first leg of their last-16 clash at the Reale Arena. With the Red Devils struggling in the Premier League, the Europa League presents a crucial opportunity for silverware and a route back into the Champions League. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad will be looking to bounce back after consecutive defeats in domestic competitions and make a statement against the English giants.
Manchester United Seeking Redemption in Europe
After crashing out of the FA Cup to Fulham on penalties last weekend, Manchester United’s season has taken a downward spiral. The Red Devils currently sit in 14th place in the Premier League, and their hopes of securing a top-four finish seem all but over. As a result, Ruben Amorim’s men must now put everything into the Europa League if they hope to salvage a disastrous campaign.
United have been one of the most consistent teams in the Europa League this season, remaining unbeaten in the competition. They secured third place in the League Phase standings, finishing with five wins and three draws. Additionally, they boast one of the most potent attacks in the tournament, averaging 18.8 shots per game— their highest in any European competition since 2003-04.
Despite their struggles in England, the Red Devils have a solid record in Spain, having lost just one of their last eight European away matches in the country (five wins, two draws). However, that single defeat came in their most recent visit to Sevilla, where they suffered a 3-0 loss in the Europa League quarter-finals in 2023.
Real Sociedad’s Struggles in 2025
Real Sociedad are not having the best year either. They have lost five of their eight La Liga matches in 2025 and suffered back-to-back defeats to Real Madrid and Barcelona in their most recent games.
Their 4-0 thrashing by Barcelona last weekend highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities, with Aritz Elustondo’s early red card making matters worse. La Real have slipped to ninth in La Liga and are currently 12 points off a Champions League qualification spot. If they fail to win the Europa League, their chances of returning to Europe’s elite competition next season are slim.
However, Sociedad can take confidence from their European performances. They finished 13th in the League Phase and cruised past FC Midtjylland with a 7-3 aggregate victory in the playoff round. They have won six of their last seven Europa League matches, making them a formidable opponent for United.
Despite their strong European form, Sociedad have never beaten an English team at home in their history (three losses, one draw). They have failed to score in three of their last four home games against Premier League sides, including goalless draws against Manchester United in 2013 and 2022. 
Team News & Possible Lineups
Real Sociedad will be without Jon Pacheco (muscle injury) and Arsen Zakharyan (thigh), while Alvaro Odriozola remains doubtful. However, key players Sheraldo Becker and Takefusa Kubo return from suspension, while Martin Zubimendi and Jon Aramburu are available after missing the second leg against Midtjylland.
Manchester United are dealing with a major injury crisis. Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte picked up knocks in the FA Cup defeat to Fulham, adding to an already extensive injury list. Lisandro Martinez (knee), Amad Diallo (ankle), Kobbie Mainoo (calf), Luke Shaw (hamstring), Jonny Evans (muscle), and Mason Mount remain unavailable.
Toby Collyer has been included in the 18-man squad and could feature in midfield. Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro are expected to start, while Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund, and Joshua Zirkzee will form the attack. Victor Lindelof will likely replace Maguire in defense, while Patrick Dorgu is set to make his Europa League debut for United.
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Predicted Lineups
Real Sociedad possible starting XI:
Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Aguerd, Munoz; Sucic, Zubimendi, Mendez; Kubo, Oyarzabal, Barrenetxea.
Manchester United possible starting XI:
Onana; De Ligt, Lindelof, Yoro; Dalot, Fernandes, Casemiro, Dorgu; Garnacho, Hojlund, Zirkzee.
Today’s first legs #UEL pic.twitter.com/ryy1oYPaNR
— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) March 6, 2025
Match Prediction & Jambobet Betting Tips
Real Sociedad’s recent form and Manchester United’s inconsistencies make this a tough match to call. However, given United’s attacking firepower and Sociedad’s defensive frailties, this fixture could see plenty of goals.
- Jambobet Prediction: Real Sociedad 2-2 Manchester United
- Both Teams to Score (GG): Yes
- Over 2.5 Goals: Yes
- Match Winner: Draw
Manchester United have struggled for consistency, but they have enough attacking quality to score at least twice. Sociedad, on the other hand, will be eager to take advantage of United’s defensive injuries and put themselves in a strong position for the second leg.
With both teams showing defensive weaknesses, expect an entertaining game with goals at both ends. A draw seems the most likely outcome, setting up an exciting return leg at Old Trafford.
