How will Manchester United fare in the Champions League this season?
Jose Mourinho is currently facing a lot of heat due to Manchester United’s lacklustre performances in the Premier League so far. But to make matters worse, United have been rather unlucky with their Champions League group draw. While neighbours Manchester City have been lucky, the Red Devils have been a drawn in a tough Group H.
Group H
Juventus
Manchester United
Valencia
Young Boys
Fixtures Analysis
The biggest story of the group is Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Old Trafford. The Portuguese superstar switched Real Madrid for Juventus this summer and is yet to score a goal for his new club. But this is Ronaldo we are talking about – a player who can hit peak form at any moment.
The two matches with Juventus will be the toughest test for Manchester United. In fact, Mourinho’s men must travel to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea the weekend before they welcome Juventus at Old Trafford. Then, they have to face Manchester City. Although it will be a crucial do-or-die time for United, one must admit that they have some tough fixtures coming up. Hence, the Portuguese boss should utilize his squad smartly as these two weeks can either make or break their entire season.
Apart from the Old Lady, Mourinho’s men have to counter Valencia too. The Spanish side finished 4th in Spain last season and have signed some exciting players like Michy Batshuayi, Kevin Gameiro, and Denis Cheryshev.
Meanwhile, Young Boys are the defending Swiss Champions and have started the new season in a picture-perfect manner. They have won 6 out of 6 games in the Swiss Super League but Manchester United should be the clear favourites against them.
Nevertheless, it is a tough group for Jose Mourinho but if his squad performs to its potential, there shouldn’t be any problems getting out of it. United must target home wins against Valencia and Young Boys, and should comfortably beat the Swiss side away from home as well. A positive result away at either Valencia or Juventus could guarantee a place for United in the Round of 16.
Predictions
- Juventus
- Manchester United
- Valencia
- Young Boys
