Old Trafford will host the 2nd leg of the Europa League round of 32 game against Club Brugge on Thursday. The 1st leg ended in a 1-1 draw at the Jan Breydel Stadium, meaning Manchester United have the all important away goal.

The 1st leg showed us that Brugge could definitely cause United problems, catching the defense out with lofted balls multiple times, and scoring their goal from a long goal kick which the United defenders were not prepared for.

United will likely field a pretty different side this time around against Brugge. It is pivotal for them to get into the next round and we will likely see a very strong side. Although United do need to be wary as they play Everton 3 days after.

After 81 minutes last week, Bruno Fernandes finally took to the pitch where he ran the show for the remainder of the game. He completed 100% of his passes and took 4 shots in the time he was on the pitch. After a goal and an assist against Watford on Sunday, it’s likely he will start on Thursday.

Martial has had a great past week, scoring a goal in each of the 3 games United played. Although, he could be one of the players who are rested, as Ighalo could slot in to make his full debut and give Martial a rest ahead of Everton.

Solskjaer has said that only Axel Tuenzebe and Timothy Fosu-Mensah are not fit for the match other than the obvious Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford. This is what Ole had to say about the squad:

“We’ve got a strong and fit 25-man squad and it was a good session. We’re looking stronger.”

This could mean the return of Scott McTominay to the lineup after he made an appearance from the bench against Watford.

Club Brugge will be looking to get their first win in a European match in England after not being able to in 12 previous attempts.

Whereas United will be looking to carry on their run of 12 unbeaten home Europa League matches.

The danger man for Manchester United will clearly be Bruno Fernandes, after he has picked up 3 MOTM’s in 3 starts for the Red Devils. He will likely be amongst the goals, scoring 5 in the tournament already.

For Brugge, The man who scored the goal in the first leg, Dennis, who caused United problems all night will be the one to watch. Dennis registered 3 shots on target and created 2 big chances for the Belgium side last Thursday. He will be looking to have a similar impact in Manchester.

Predicted XI

Romero will make his regular Europa League start, where he has kept 4 clean sheets in 5 appearances.

It will likely be a similar back 4 as against Watford, apart from Bailly being introduced. William’s had trouble against this opposition last week and will probably occupy the bench as Luke Shaw continues his good form.

McTominay will come into the midfield for Fred, giving him extra rest ahead of Everton, McTominay also is not match fit and not ready to start against opposition of Everton’s caliber.

Lingard and Andreas are unlikely to make the 11 after both having poor performances last Thursday, leaving James, Bruno and Mata. Greenwood will likely appear from the bench, and will most likely start against Everon on the weekend.

Ighalo will come in to make his first start for the club since joining, leaving Martial on the bench to come on if needed.

Game Prediction

Unlike in the away leg, United will be more solid defensively. They have 2 clean sheets in a row at home and will be looking to make it 3 in a row.

Bruno Ferndandes will dictate the game, and likely end up on the scoresheet again. He will also help Matic and McTominay to dominate the midfield battle.

Ighalo has missed his first 2 chances in a United shirt, and will be looking to change that. He will be full of fire and will have a solid performance.

Brugge will have good spells of positive attacking football but will not be able to sustain the pressure throughout.

Final Prediction: Manchester United 2-0 Club Brugge