Manchester United seek to bounce back in Europa League clash against Rangers

Manchester United will look to put their dismal Premier League form behind them as they host Rangers in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday. The Red Devils have struggled under head coach Ruben Amorim, picking up just 11 points from their first 11 Premier League games. However, their Europa League campaign has been a different story, with United remaining unbeaten and inside the top-eight.

Amorim’s men have been struggling at Old Trafford, with four defeats from their last five matches. However, their Europa League record at home is impressive, with just one loss as hosts in the competition since March 2012. United will be looking to capitalize on this strong home record and make it three European wins in a row under Amorim.

Rangers, meanwhile, are facing their own struggles in the Scottish Premiership, trailing bitter rivals Celtic by 13 points. As a result, manager Philippe Clement may prioritize the Europa League, where Rangers also occupy a top-eight position. Clement has steadied the ship with a seven-match unbeaten run across all competitions, but his side’s away form remains a concern.

United captain Bruno Fernandes could make his 50th Europa League appearance in the match and will be looking to add to his impressive record in the competition. Rangers centre-back Leon Balogun, meanwhile, will be tasked with keeping Fernandes quiet while also posing a threat going forward, having scored and assisted in a 15-minute cameo from the bench against Aberdeen last week.

The two teams have met four times previously, with United emerging victorious on three occasions and drawing once. Notably, United have never conceded a goal against Rangers in these meetings.

The match presents an opportunity for United to bounce back from their disappointing Premier League form and build momentum in the Europa League. With their strong home record in the competition and Rangers’ away struggles, United will be confident of securing a positive result.