The Europa League final is in sight for Manchester United after they blew Roma away in the second half of the first-leg at Old Trafford. If Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side avoid a complete collapse at the Stadio Olimpico, they will reach their first final under the Norwegian.
Sub edited by Ciaran Coyle
Embed from Getty ImagesBoth sides had a dramatic weekend with United seeing their derby match with Liverpool postponed due to Anti-Glazer protests at Old Trafford, whilst Roma announced that manager Paulo Fonseca will be replaced with former United manager, Jose Mourinho, at the end of the season after they lost 2-0 to Sampdoria.
With the outcome and consequences of the postponement of the Red Devils weekend clash still unclear, Solskjaer will want to get everyone talking about their performances on the pitch with United having won six of their last seven in all competitions, drawing the other.
Roma’s decision to replace Fonseca at the end of the season is no real surprise with the Giallorossi sat seventh in the league, claiming just a solitary point from their last four games. However, you can never write a team off in Europe and Roma are a prime example after they knocked out Barcelona in sensational style three years ago.
Team News:
First-choice keeper Pau Lopez, who was injured in the first leg will miss the rest of the season with veteran keeper Antonio Mirante set to start. Roma also have injury concerns over Jordan Veretout, Leonardo Spinazzola, Amadou Diawara and Carles Perez who were also side-lined on the weekend against Sampdoria.
United’s injury list is simpler. Anthony Martial is the long-term absentee whilst David De Gea is expected to start with the Spaniard becoming United’s keeper in Europe.
Recent Results:
Manchester United 6-2 Roma 04/21
Manchester United 1-0 Roma 04/08
Roma 0-2 Manchester United 04/08
Roma 1-1 Manchester United 12/07