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Man United vs Lyon: Match preview, what to expect, key players

Manchester United face Lyon in the Europa League quarter-final second leg on Thursday evening at Old Trafford.

United remain the only team yet to be beaten in the competition but head into the game bruised, having lost 4-1 to Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday.

By contrast, Lyon would be high on confidence. They won 3-1 at Auxerre to boost their chances of finishing in one of the Champions League places in League One.

Match preview

Goalkeeper Andre Onana denied Man United victory in the first leg. His goof led to the clash ending in a 2-2 draw.

United have a good omen ahead of Thursday’s clash. They have won their two meetings with the French side on their patch.

The Red Devils must continue their impeccable record against the French giants to progress to the semi-final.

The Red Devils will be without striker Joshua Zirkzee for this tie. He picked up an injury during their clash with Newcastle. He could miss the rest of the season.

He joins forward Amad Diallo, midfielder Toby Collyer, centre-backs Matthijs de Ligt, Jonny Evans and Lisandro Martinez on the treatment table.

Midfielder Paul Akouokou should be fit to play for Lyon. He was brought off in the first leg due to a suspected injury but featured in their encounter with Auxerre.

Tanner Tessman could also play after missing the first leg, while forward Malick Fofana is closing in on a return from injury.

What to expect

The two sides showed in the reverse fixture why they have been two of the best sides in the competition.

Lyon dominated possession in the first half, while United were superior in the second half. They also scored four goals, the most of any quarter-final tie.

This game should be intriguing, particularly with qualification for the last four on the line.

Key players

Man United

Bruno Fernandes: He registered an assist in the reverse fixture, and his set-pieces were dangerous throughout the contest. United will need him to be at his best again in this encounter.

Harry Maguire: The English defender was rested at Newcastle and should be refreshed for this tie. His leadership in defence and performance could be key for Ruben Amorim’s side.

Lyon

Rayan Cherki: The French midfielder came up clutch in the first leg, scoring the equaliser for the French outfit. He has been one of the best players in the competition this season.

Corentin Tolisso: He had a quiet game in France last week but is one of Paulo Fonseca’s trusted legs. He is one of the club’s best central midfielders.












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