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Europa League boost for Man United as key Real Sociedad star could be ruled out injured

Real Sociedad will face Manchester United sans striker Mikel Oyarzabal
Mikel Oyarzabal (Sociedad), AUGUST 25, 2017 - Football / Soccer : Spanish "La Liga Santander" match between Real Sociedad 3-0 Villarreal CF at the Anoeta stadium in San Sebastian, Spain. (Photo by Mutsu Kawamori/AFLO) [3604]

Real Sociedad star Mikel Oyarzabal ruled out of Europa League tie against Manchester United

According to The Mirror, Manchester United have been handed an advantage ahead of their Europa League tie against Real Sociedad.

The matchup against the La Liga side is a potential banana skill United must navigate through. Currently sixth in the Spanish top-flight, Sociedad are well within their ability to spring a surprise.

The first leg was supposed to be held in San Sebastian. However, due to Covid-19 restrictions, it has now been shifted to Juventus’ Allianz Stadium.

Real Sociedad star Mikel Oyarzabal ruled out of Europa League tie against Manchester United
Real Sociedad star Mikel Oyarzabal ruled out of Europa League tie against Manchester United

Not only have Sociedad been forced to relinquish home-field advantage, but they also could not be without one of their best players in Mikel Oyarzabal.

The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the best players in the La Real setup. Arguably their best player, a hamstring injury will now see him sit out of both legs against United.

The Spanish striker has been in immaculate form this season. With 12 goals and six assists in 25 appearances, he has led the line with distinction. (h/t Transfermarkt)

Paul Pogba Adnan Januzaj
Adnan Januzaj (Right) now plays for Real Sociedad

Making the most of one’s blessings

Oyarzabal is expected to be out for six weeks. With the first leg to be played on 18th February and the reverse leg scheduled at Old Trafford for 25th February. He appears more than likely to miss both games.

The striker’s absence will come as a boost for a United defence that has proven to be the club’s Achilles heel this season.

Every small advantage will count and the onus is now on the Red Devils to make the most of their blessings.

Real Sociedad star Mikel Oyarzabal ruled out of Europa League tie against Manchester United
United should take advantage of Oyarzabal’s absence (GETTY Images)

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The Red Devils have already played at the Allianz Stadium once before in the 2018/19 Champions League group stages. Then managed by Jose Mourinho, we defeated 36-time Italian champions Juventus 2-1.

Hopefully, we can repeat that against Sociedad next week.

Written by Pranav Nair

An Engineering postgraduate with a keen interest in statistics, pop culture and football.

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