Benat Turrientes, a midfielder for Real Sociedad, claims that after Thursday night’s 1-1 Europa League match, Manchester United injured his team during transitions.
The Spaniard acknowledged that La Real “knew it was going to be a difficult match” against Ruben Amorim’s club, who were the superior team for the bulk of the contest and managed a hard-fought draw in the Round of 16 first leg.
Just before the hour, Mikel Oyarzabal equalised from the penalty spot after Joshua Zirkzee gave the Red Devils the lead.
Late in the second half, forward Orri Oskarsson blew a fantastic opportunity to give the home team a lead before their trip to Old Trafford the following week.
At Reale Arena, Man United secures a draw.
La Real loses their chance to win.
Speaking to the media following full time, Turrientes acknowledged that Real Sociedad had obvious opportunities to win but battled against United’s counterattacks:
We were aware that the match would be challenging. It was competitive, I believe. They have quick players, they allowed us have the ball, they played good defence, and we struggled with the transitions.
“We had excellent opportunities to win in the end. Since we wouldn’t be here otherwise, we are good, and this is Europe, where there are good teams. We are eager to see the rematch so we can have another fantastic evening.
With five victories and four draws this season, Man United is still undefeated in Europe and will be optimistic of making it to the quarterfinals at Old Trafford on Thursday.
With 11 games left in the Premier League, Amorim’s team is 10 points outside of the European berths after a difficult domestic campaign.
The Europa League is their most practical route to European football; if they make it to the following round, they would play the winner of Lyon vs. FCSB.
In the first leg, the Ligue 1 team won 3-1 on the road thanks to goals from Nicolas Tagliafico and Malick Fonana.
The Man United Record of Ruben Amorim (2024/25)
Games
25
Gains
11.
Draws
4.
Losses
10.
Points for each match
1.48
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