Manchester United travel to Romania to face FCSB in their final Europa League group stage match with the lineup confirmed, aiming to secure direct qualification to the round of 16.
A win would mark their fifth straight victory in the competition, while a draw could also be enough to avoid the play-off round. However, a defeat could complicate their European path with two extra games in February.
Team Form and Recent Performances
United have been dominant in the Europa League this season, winning all four of their previous group matches against PAOK, Bodo/Glimt, Viktoria Plzen, and Rangers. Their last outing saw them edge past Rangers, with Bruno Fernandes scoring the decisive goal to become the second United player after Marcus Rashford to net 10+ Europa League goals.
FCSB, meanwhile, are on a solid unbeaten run in Europe, with victories over Midtjylland and Qarabag and goalless draws against Olympiacos and Hoffenheim. The Romanian champions have lost just once in this campaign—a 4-0 defeat at Rangers—but they remain a resilient side, sitting second in their domestic league.
Key Players to Watch
With captain Darius Olaru ruled out following shoulder surgery, FCSB will look to striker Daniel Birligea, who has scored three times in the Europa League this season. Goalkeeper Stefan Tarnovanu, a regular in Romania’s Euro 2024 squad, has kept four clean sheets in seven games, making him a crucial figure at the back.
For United, Bruno Fernandes remains the creative heartbeat, while Rasmus Højlund and Alejandro Garnacho will be eager to make an impact. Defensively, Maguire and Martinez could play a key role in stopping FCSB’s aerial threats, while Bayandir will be looking to build on recent solid performances.
Manchester United’s Confirmed Lineup
Bayindir
Mazraoui
De Ligt
Martinez
Dalot
Mainoo
Collyer
Malacia
Fernandes (c)
Eriksen
Hojlund
Substitutes: Heaton, Onana, Lindelof, Maguire, Yoro, Casemiro, Ugarte, Amad, Garnacho, Zirkzee.
Injury Updates and Suspensions
United have received a boost with Victor Lindelof returning to the bench in their recent Premier League match against Fulham after a month-long absence. However, Manuel Ugarte remains a doubt after picking up a knock at Craven Cottage. His availability will likely be clarified during manager Ruben Amorim’s press conference on Wednesday.
FCSB will be without their captain Darius Olaru, who is sidelined for months after undergoing shoulder surgery. Midfielders Octavian Popescu and Mihai Lixandru are also unavailable.
Head-to-Head Record
This is the first-ever meeting between Manchester United and FCSB in competitive competition. However, United have a strong record against Romanian sides, winning five of their six matches. The only blemish came in 2012 when CFR Cluj stunned United at Old Trafford with a 1-0 victory.
FCSB, meanwhile, have struggled against English opposition, losing their last seven games to Premier League teams by an aggregate score of 20-2.
Tactical Setup and Strategies
Manchester United: Amorim’s men are likely to stick with their usual 3-4-2-1 setup, with Fernandes operating as the main playmaker. Collyer and Mainoo will provide stability in midfield, while Amad and Garnacho offer width. Expect United to control possession and press high up the pitch.
FCSB: The Romanians are expected to deploy a 4-3-3 system, with Birligea spearheading the attack. Without Olaru, the midfield will rely heavily on Adrian Sut to dictate play. The key battle will be in defense, where Tarnovanu will need to be at his best against United’s high-intensity attack.
What’s at Stake?
United have already qualified for the next round, but a win ensures they bypass the play-off round and head straight to the Round of 16. A draw could still be enough, but a loss may result in two additional games in February.
For FCSB, a victory could keep their slim qualification hopes alive depending on other results, but their European campaign is likely coming to an end regardless.
Where and When to Watch
The match kicks off at 20:00 GMT on Thursday, January 30. It will be broadcast live on TNT Sports in the UK, with pre-match coverage on MUTV starting at 18:55 GMT. Fans can also follow live updates via the Manchester United App.
Final Prediction
United’s superior form and experience in Europe make them heavy favorites. FCSB’s home advantage could keep the game competitive early on, but with their defensive vulnerabilities and United’s attacking firepower, an away win looks the most likely outcome.
Prediction: FCSB 0-2 Manchester United
