While Manchester United have lost three of their four UEFA Champions League group stage clashes thus far this season, they’re actually still in the running to reach the round of 16, amazingly. Of course, they will have to win at Galatasaray on Wednesday night, and hope that Bayern Munich beats FC Copenhagen too.
That scenario actually puts them in second place in Group A (and thus in line to advance to the knockout round) believe it or not.
Man United at Galatasaray FYIs
Kickoff: Wed. Nov. 29, 5:45 pm, RAMS Park
Competition: UEFA Champions League Group A Matchday 5/6
United Preview Content: Team News Starting XI Prediction
Fun Fact: none, if you’re a United supporter who hopes they can make the UCL knockout round.
Transatlantic Passage: How the Premier League Redefined Soccer in America: LINK
Google Result Probability: Galatasaray 36% Draw 26% Man United 38%
Group A Form: Galatasaray LLWD Man United LWLL
However, the sixth and final match of the group stage is a home date with Bayern and if you’ll recall, the reverse fixture went horribly for United. It’s tough, but it can still get done, and obviously United have no one to blame but themselves for being in this position. The lone win they have in this competition was far from convincing, to say the least.
Manager Erik ten Hag made some “interesting” choices to say the least with his starting lineup Sunday at Everton. Luke Shaw went straight back into the firs, and Kobbie Mainoo got a first team assignment, so that is great for him. Alejandro Garnacho took advantage of a rare start and scored an all-world goal. His bicycle kick is among the greatest goals in United history.
Maybe he keeps his place here? This match is going to be tough one, as United have already lost the reverse fixture at home.
Manchester United Starting XI Prediction at Galatasaray (UCL)
Andre Onana; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw; Scott McTominay, Sofyan Amrabat; Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Anthony Martial
Paul M. Banks is the owner/manager of The Sports Bank. He’s also the author of “Transatlantic Passage: How the English Premier League Redefined Soccer in America,” and “No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in the Sports Media Industry.”
He’s written for numerous publications, including the New York Daily News, Sports Illustrated and the Chicago Tribune. He regularly appears on NTD News and WGN News Now, while writing for the International Baseball Writers Association of America. You can follow the website on Twitter.