2024-25 UEFA Europa League: League Phase – Man Utd vs PAOK

Manchester United host PAOK at Old Trafford in the league phase of 2024-25 UEFA Europa League. 

Victory could see Man Utd climb into the seeded knockout play-off spots, whilst PAOK can leapfrog Utd with a win and move into the knockout play-off spots.

 

Team News

Christian Eriksen is a major doubt for Man Utd after he missed their last two matches with an unspecified injury.

Bruno Fernandes is available after he was suspended for their last Europa League outing, which saw Utd draw 1-1 away at Fenerbahce.

Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire (both calf), Kobbie Mainoo (hamstring), Mason Mount (head), Antony, Leny Yoro (both ankle) and Tyrell Malacia (knee) remain absent.

PAOK could be without Giannis Konstantelias due to illness.

Tiemoue Bakayoko (knock), Antoine Tsiftsis (muscle), Dejan Lovren and Mbwana Samatta (both ineligible) won’t feature.

 

When is Kick-Off?

Man Utd host PAOK at Old Trafford on Thursday 7 November at 8pm GMT, live on TNT Sport 2 in the UK.

 

Stat Attack

• This is Man Utd’s first-ever meeting against PAOK in all UEFA competitions.
• PAOK are playing at Old Trafford for the first time in what is their first clash against non London-based English opposition.
• In three previous away trips to English opposition, PAOK avoided defeat on two occasions (W1, D1, L1).
• Christian Eriksen has scored in two of Utd’s three Europa League games this season, which both ended in 1-1 draws against Twente and Fenerbahce respectively.
• PAOK have lost one of four away games in all UEFA competitions this season (W2, D1, L1).

 

Prediction

Having avoided defeat in their last two matches and looked more aggressive in their attacking play, Man Utd must view this as a chance to get that first win of their Europa League campaign.

PAOK meanwhile have proven difficult to beat on the road in Europe this season but their defence is their weak point with just one clean sheet.

Now if Utd can continue to show their improvement, I can see them taking a win but neither team has a strong defence.

Prediction: Man Utd 2-1 PAOK

Result: Man Utd 2-0 PAOK