Cherkiiii!

Zirkzee gives United the lead!

That's how United matched it!

ALMADAAAAA!

Lyon's 11 players take the field!

This is Manchester United's starting XI

Manchester United faces a crucial challenge in the UEFA Europa League as they host Olympique Lyon at Old Trafford for the first leg of the quarter-finals. With an inconsistent run in the Premier League, Ruben Amorim’s side sees this competition as their best chance to salvage the season. Meanwhile, the French club arrives in good form and aims to make a statement on the European stage.

Manchester United is going through a tough period in their domestic league and views the Europa League as their main route to securing a European spot next season. A goalless draw in the Manchester derby left them in a difficult position in the standings, adding even more pressure to this tie. With Bruno Fernandes leading the midfield, the English side will also rely on the speed and attacking prowess of Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund.

On the other hand, Lyon has found some stability in recent weeks and comes into this match after a 2-1 win over Lille in Ligue 1. With the domestic title practically secured by PSG, Pierre Sage’s squad is fully focused on the Europa League, hoping to claim an international trophy. The experience and quality of Alexandre Lacazette, alongside the creativity of Thiago Almada, will be key as they attempt to secure a positive result at Old Trafford.

Pre-Match Controversy: Criticism of United's Management and a War of Words

The clash between Manchester United and Lyon has been surrounded by controversy ahead of kickoff. Eric Cantona, a club legend, has heavily criticized the leadership of Jim Ratcliffe, stating that he no longer identifies with the team. The Frenchman expressed his dissatisfaction with the current management, the club’s structural changes, and the possibility of building a new stadium to replace Old Trafford.

On the sporting side, the match has also been marked by a heated exchange between Nemanja Matic and André Onana. The Serbian midfielder, now playing for Lyon, described the Cameroonian goalkeeper as "one of the worst in Manchester United’s history." Matic was responding to Onana’s previous claim that United was "much better" than Lyon. This war of words adds even more fuel to what promises to be an intense encounter.

With all these elements in play, the battle between Manchester United and Lyon is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling matchups in the Europa League quarter-finals.