Manchester United have put themselves in a strong position to reach the Europa League knockout stages as Rangers visit in a huge British clash.
Three points from their opening three games during the death throws of Erik ten Hag’s tenure left United fearing elimination from Europe entirely, but wins over POAK, Bodo/Glimt and Vikoria Plzen under interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy and then Ruben Amorim has them sitting in automatic qualification spots with two games to play.
The top eight qualify automatically for the knockout stage, while the teams who finish between 9th and 24th enter into a play-off round to reach the last-16 stage.
Rangers come to town tonight looking to boost their own chances of reaching the knockout stages, and ideally without the need of a play-off round next month. Having taken points off Tottenham already this season, they will hope to repeat the feat at Old Trafford. United conclude the League Phase at FCSB next week.
Here are the permutations for the Europa League knockout stages.
What do Man Utd need to qualify for knockout stages?
If Man Utd beat Rangers: Three valuable points will confirm at least a play-off spot and all but secure automatic qualification for the last-16 stage.
If Man Utd draw with Rangers: A draw should also secure a play-off spot but United will be left needing to win in Bucharest next week to hopefully avoid a play-off.
If Man Utd lose to Rangers: This should put an automatic spot out of reach, even with a win over FCSB next week. United would likely be facing a two-leg play-off.
