Manchester United made a dismal start to their European campaign, losing 1-0 to Real Sociedad at Old Trafford in September.
But their subsequent three victories have almost guaranteed their progress to the knockout stage of the prestigious competition.
United are currently second in their group and require one more point in their next home encounter against Sheriff Tiraspol to qualify for the next round.
However, finishing top of the group will be difficult for Erik ten Hag’s side.
Assuming Sociedad and United both win their games tonight, the final group standings will depend on the match between the two sides next week.
The Red Devils would need to win by a two-goal margin to finish above Sociedad.
Possible Manchester United opponents
Finishing top of the group is looking unlikely for United, and they will face a play-off against one of the teams dropping down from the Champions League if they finish runners-up.
Barcelona have already exited the premier European competition after picking up just four points from their first five matches. The Spanish giants could come up against United in February.
Juventus and Atletico Madrid are the other two big clubs to have suffered an early elimination from the Champions League. Their third-place finish isn’t guaranteed, but they could be the Red Devils’ opponents in the play-offs.
Erik ten Hag’s side could also be faced with the possibility of playing against Ajax or Sporting Lisbon, with the two clubs looking likely to finish third in their respective groups.
