Ruben Amorim will be making his home bow as Manchester United manager on Thursday night as his team entertains Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League. Despite the disparity in terms of stature, history, and resources, Bodo/Glimt have been so far outperforming United in this stage of the league phase.
Match Preview
Manchester United’s new era under Ruben Amorim began on a whimper as they were held 1-1 by Ipswich Town. Marcus Rashford gave United a dream start, netting inside 82 seconds, but a slackening in intensity allowed Ipswich to level matters through Omari Hutchinson.
Amorim has repeatedly highlighted that his rebuilding job at Old Trafford is a long-term one, but for now, attention turns to the Europa League. The boss is keen to lead United into the knockout stages, a target within reach following their 2-0 win over PAOK on matchday four – United’s first European victory in over a year.
Currently sitting 15th in the standings, United are on track for a top-eight finish, with upcoming fixtures against Bodo/Glimt, Viktoria Plzen, FCSB, and Rangers providing opportunities to cement their position.
For Bodo/Glimt, this is a very historic fixture. The first-ever visit to Old Trafford as part of a fairytale European odyssey could hardly be more aptly timed, with a domestic league title soon to be wrapped up and spirits particularly high. Balancing this monumental week-including their Eliteserien finale-will be a significant challenge.
Team News
Manchester United
United’s injury plight in the defensive line has not improved. Injured are Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, and Victor Lindelof. The hope is that Martinez should soon be back, possibly even this weekend against Everton.
Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw finally returned to action last weekend, with the former sure to feature here. However, Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte are not quite fit yet and may be rested here ahead of the Everton game.
Predicted Lineup:
Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Evans; Amad, Casemiro, Eriksen, Shaw; Antony, Hojlund, Fernandes
Bodo/Glimt
Bodo/Glimt’s injury list also comes up with Omar Elabdellaoui, Samuel Burakovsky, Daniel Bassi, Gaute Vetti and Syver Skeide are on the sidelines. Nikita Haikin in goal will have many demands placed upon him, with his already 24 saves in the Europa League-high. Patrick Berg in midfield – in front of him – has led the league in tackles and interceptions, so far.
Predicted Lineup:
Haikin; Sjovold, Nielsen, Bjortuft, Bjorkan; Evjen, Berg, Saltnes; Zinckernagel, Hogh, Hauge
Key Stats
Manchester United have lost only one of their past 26 home games in the Europa League.
Bodo/Glimt are making only their second trip to England, following a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in 2022-23.
Goalkeeper Nikita Haikin leads the Europa League in saves, while Patrick Berg tops the charts for tackles and interceptions.
Prediction
United’s home dominance in the Europa League makes them strong favorites. However, while Bodo/Glimt have impressed on the road with results against Braga and Union SG, Old Trafford is a whole different kettle of fish.
Prediction: Manchester United 3-0 Bodo/Glimt
