AS Roma boss Paulo Fonseca keen to ‘attack’ Manchester United
According to Football Italia (h/t Manchester Evening News), AS Roma manager Paulo Fonseca has warned Manchester United ahead of the Europa League semifinal first-leg clash this week.
The Red Devils take on the Italian giants as they look to go all the way in the competition. Having fallen at the same stage last season, they are keen to go one better.
Having defeated Ajax Amsterdam in the last round, Fonseca is keen to take an attacking approach against the Red Devils.
He admits that the Italians will not sit deep against Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side. They intend to attack and he has made no secret of that approach.
“It’s true that Manchester United are very dangerous on the counter-attack, but we must realise it’ll be really difficult if we go to Manchester and just defend.”
The Serie A side are dangerous opponents on their day and can present us problems if we permit them to do so. United were lethargic at the weekend against Leeds United and a repeat of the same would be inviting trouble.
“We need to keep the ball and make it difficult for them. The team must show character and not sit too deep.”
Much at stake!
The Europa League represents the best chance for both clubs to win a trophy this season. Currently in the seventh spot in the Italian top-flight, winning the competition represents Roma’s best chance of getting into next season’s Champions League.
The importance of the tie is not lost on Fonseca. United too will do well to turn up on the night and perform to their best.
“This semi-final with Manchester United is very important and I must stay entirely focused on a game that is too important for us.”
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The Red Devils have faced off against the Italians six times in a competitive setup so far. They have won four of those games so far and are unbeaten in the last five games against Roma.
This includes the impressive 7-1 hammering we dished out at Old Trafford in 2007. Hopefully, history will repeat itself this week.
