Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League match.
Manchester United and Real Sociedad both aim to extend their European campaigns, but their recent form suggests a tense, low-scoring encounter at Old Trafford. Both sides struggle with consistency, particularly in attack, which is likely to dictate the tempo of the match.
Manchester United
Since early February, Manchester United have won just two of their last eight matches across all competitions. Their domestic struggles have seen them drop into the lower half of the Premier League table, while they were also eliminated from the FA Cup. Adding to their concerns, Rasmus Højlund remains goalless since November (a 19-match drought). In the first leg in San Sebastián, Manchester United managed only 1.16 xG, which was almost enough for victory.
Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad generated more expected goals (1.46) in the first leg but needed to come from behind. The returns of Take Kubo, Luka Sučić, and Brais Méndez bolster their attacking options, but all three lack match sharpness. That was evident in their 0:1 defeat to Sevilla in La Liga on Sunday, where they managed just two shots on target.
Manchester United vs Real Sociedad Prediction
These teams have now played four consecutive matches with under 2.5 goals since 2021. Given the tactical caution and lack of fluidity in attack, expect another low-scoring affair at Old Trafford.
