Manchester United travel to Valencia’s Mestalla for matchday 6 in the Champions League. The fate of both teams has already been sealed as Manchester United have qualified for the knockout round while Valencia will be taking a place in the Europa League.
Jose Mourinho’s Red Devils could still top the group, but they will need a win in Spain and a Juventus loss against Young boys to achieve it.
Mourinho’s team is undefeated in its last four games, but two of those fixtures were draws in the Premier League. Manchester United continue to underachieve, but they did ease to a 4-1 victory over Fulham at the weekend. Mourinho once again faces a defensive injury crisis heading to Spain. It seems that has been a recurring theme this term. Chris Smalling, Luke Shaw, Victor Lindelof, and Eric Bailley are all doubts. If Valencia field a strong attacking team, they could expose Manchester United’s thin back line.
Valencia drew on matchday 2 with Manchester United nil-nil and for large patches looked the better side. The Spaniards aren’t in the best form going into the fixture. Los Che have taken a major step backwards after finishing fourth in La Liga last term. Valencia are 15th in La Liga having one just two of their last six games. Just four points separate them from the relegation zone. It has truly been a turnaround of fortunes.
It isn’t just Manchester United’s defence that is facing an injury crisis. Alexis Sanchez is definitely out while Anthony Martial could still play, although it is unlikely. Manchester United play Liverpool at Anfield at the weekend, therefore, Mourinho will want to preserve his star players for the Premier League fixture.
Sportsbooks are slightly favouring Manchester United in odds. For the most part, games featuring the two clubs have been low scoring in Group H. Just three of the 10 matches featuring Manchester United and Valencia have seen over 2.5 goals. It is likely this game will have under 2.5 goals scored. Valencia have tallied four goals while Manchester United have scored six times in Group H. Goals have come in waves for both teams.
Neither club has anything to play for except pride. Yes, Manchester United could finish top of the group, but the likelihood of Juventus losing to Young Boys is low. Manchester United will win at the Mestalla and the game will see fewer than 2.5 goals. The Red Devils will finish second in Group H and Valencia will move into the Europa League following Christmas.