There’s no question Manchester United have what it takes to win the UEFA Europa League this season.
The Red Devils are playing against Anderlecht, but they have everything on their side to advance. After drawing 1-1 in the first leg in Belgium, The Red Devils need to close the deal in Old Trafford. And barring an unexpected meltdown, they shouldn’t have problems to sneak into the semifinals.
If we first analyze their current opponent, we can see Anderlecht are a below-average team when compared to the rest of the European scene. They have some interesting players such as Łukasz Teodorczyk and Youri Tielemans. But they would need a full-team effort in Old Trafford. And if the second leg is similar to the first one, it’s not going to be enough.
If we put United on the semifinals, then they would have to wait for their opponent in the next round. It could be Besiktas, Lyon, Celta Vigo, Gent, Schalke 04 or Ajax.
Out of that group, Lyon appear as the most difficult opponent while Celta and Ajax could also pose a few problems to United. But Lyon have been very inconsistent, Celta lacks a game-changing player, and Ajax are a few years away from being a real European threat. There’s no reason to think United shouldn’t defeat any of them in a potential semifinal or final round.
Manchester United has what it takes to make it to the final. First of all, they have world-class players. No other team in the tournament features players such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paul Pogba and David De Gea. And if they are not enough, United has enough to depth to withstand any absence. Let’s remember they currently have Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata dealing with injury. That’s four players who could easily start in any other top club in the world.
Second, they have Mourinho on the sideline. And believe me – having a manager who knows how to win is even more important than having a good team. Mourinho has won the Champions League multiple times throughout his career, and he’s been successful everywhere he’s been. It’s only a matter of time before he starts collecting silverware at Old Trafford.
United are seeking the only major UEFA trophy that has eluded them. But history and recent form is on their side. Considering the strength of the squad and the opponents left on the schedule, there’s no doubt. Manchester United are the main favorite to lift the UEFA Europa League trophy in Stockholm once it’s all said and done.