Former Manchester United and Olympique Lyonnais defender Rafael has insisted that the Premier League club are the favourites to win their Europa League quarter-final tie.
United are set to host Lyon on Thursday in the return leg following last week’s 2-2 draw at the Groupama Stadium.
The Red Devils have endured a wretched Premier League season that currently has them in 14th place in the Premier League table with just 38 points gained and six matches left to play.
The club’s top-flight campaign is a write-off at this point, with full focus on the Europa League, which not only represents a chance to win silverware but also to qualify for the Champions League.
In his press conference ahead of the clash with Lyon, Ruben Amorim stressed the significant impact Champions League qualification would have on United’s summer transfer plans. He noted that not only would the financial boost be crucial, but competing in Europe’s elite tournament would also make it much easier to attract top talent.
The stakes couldn’t be higher for United and Rafael, who lined up for both sides before he called time on his professional career, has weighed in on the situation.
According to Rafael, Lyon have the tools to hurt the Red Devils but considering the fact that Amorim’s men are at home, he fancies their chances of going through.
The 34-year-old told L’Equipe [via Get French Football News], “With the ball, I think Lyon has a better team than United.”
“They’re more technical, more intelligent. But the match takes place at Old Trafford, and United are the favourites.”
Lyon have been dealt a huge injury boost, with Malick Fofana included in the Ligue 1 outfit’s travelling squad.
The tricky forward missed the first leg due to an injury but is now available to Paul Fonseca for selection. Fofana has struck 10 goals this season.
United vs. Lyon kicks off at 20:00 BST.
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
