Matters are coming to boiling poins at United as another outrageous defeat at the weekend has made this one against Valencia arguably the biggest test of the campaign so far.
Speculation surrounding José Mourinho’s future has sky-rocketed in recent days and that is no surprise given the turmoil at the club since last season, while Marcelino is also struggling to recapture his side’s form last time out.
It could be a huge turning point in the season for both teams.
Kick-off: 20:00 [BST]
Location: Old Trafford
Referee: Slavko Vinčić
UK television channel: BT Sport 2
Other Group F fixture: Juventus vs Young Boys (17:55)
Reverse fixture: 12/12/18 20:00
Los Murciélagos (The Bats)
Manager: Marcelino García Toral
La Liga Santander position: 14th
Current form: WDDLD
One to watch: Gonçalo Guedes – a winger or inside forward blessed with excellent ability on the ball and frightening pace, the Spanish side made the 21 year-old Portuguese international’s deal from Paris Saint-Germain permanent in the summer for a club record fee of £36m (with a reported £270m release clause).
Injuries/suspensions (estimated return)
- Santi Mina; knee (unknown)
- Ferran Torres; illness (unknown)
Previous three United results: LDL
Next fixture: Barcelona [A] 7/10/18
The Red Devils
Talking points
An embarrassing weekend display against West Ham United will no doubt force Mourinho to change the lineup and possibly drastic fashion as he claimed “some [players] care more than others.”
The lack of character within the dressing room at both the London Stadium and Carrington has come under question this week with players being accused of not playing for the badge.
Injuries/suspensions (estimated return)
- Ander Herrera; unknown
- Jesse Lingard; unknown
- Marcos Rojo; knee (day to day)
- Ashley Young; unknown
Team news
It is unclear whether Diogo Dalot, Antonio Valencia or even Matteo Darmian will play at right back.
Victor Lindelöf was hooked around the four mark at the weekend and could be replaced by Eric Bailly for this one.
Substituted along with Antony Martial, Paul Pogba might be guaranteed a place on the teamsheet with Fred and Ander Herrera fit to start.
Rested winger Alexis Sánchez should return to the squad given his freshness.
Marcus Rashford was arguably the only player on the pitch to come away from the Saturday’s match with any pride as his well-taken goal gave United some hope which means he is likely to play in this tie.
Juan Mata may feature against his former side.
Key quote
“It’s a big week. Everyone wants to play in the Champions League, so we are here and we have the chance to play a big match.” – José Mourinho [MUTV]
– Romelu Lukaku vs Gabriel Paulista
– Paul Pogba vs Daniel Parejo
– Chris Smalling vs Kevin Gamiero
Match facts
- United have never faced a team more than Valencia in the Champions League and remained unbeaten
- Valencia have only won 1 of their 10 visits to English sides (D3 L6) and that victory came against Liverpool almost 16 years ago to the day
- The Red Devils have not lost consecutive home Champions League games since 2013
- The Bats are also winless against José Mourinho in 10 attempts (6L 4D)
Enjoy the match!
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