AFCON 2025
Manchester United’s underwhelming season has reached a critical point, with their Europa League quarter-final against Lyon serving as a potential lifeline. They showed flashes of brilliance in the first leg, but ultimately settled for a 2-2 draw.
Ahead of a crucial second leg at Old Trafford, here are three reasons we believe Lyon can defeat Manchester United:
1. Manchester United’s defensive issues
United’s defense has been leaky, and goalkeeper André Onana’s error-prone performances have been a major concern. He made two crucial mistakes in the first leg, which led to Lyon’s goals, and his form has been inconsistent.
Lyon have talented forwards, who will certainly capitalise on any potential errors and exploit United’s defensive vulnerabilities.
2. Lyon’s Strong Away Form
Lyon defeated Auxerre 3-1 on Sunday for a seventh victory in nine matches since the start of March (D1, L1). Their strong away form is something that should inspire them at Old Trafford, as they have avoided defeat in each of their last 12 UEL away matches dating back to December 2017, while losing just once in their last 9 meetings against English opposition.
3. Lack of depth
United’s vulnerabilities and lack of depth in attack, highlighted by Joshua Zirkzee’s injury, may prove costly. Ruben Amorim’s men are already without Amad Diallo, and will rely squarely on captain Bruno Fernandes to provide the spark and the goals. Rasmus Hojlund cannot be relied on to provide adequate firepower.
