Our Manchester United fans here in the Transfer Tavern have got the slightest glimmer of hope that the Red Devils can go all the way this season, despite the fact bitter rivals Manchester City have built up an unassailable lead in the Premier League.
Having been in and out of the Champions League over the past five seasons, United will be hoping to finally make a good account of themselves against Sevilla and progress over the two legs to a quarter-final showdown.
The League has gone in many of our United fans’ minds and the sole interest and focus should now be securing the top four finish, winning the FA Cup and getting to the final and have a possible chance of winning the Champions League. If the latter is to happen, then Mourinho needs his men to step up to the plate and take hold of the second leg against Sevilla.
After a fairly dull first leg, United cannot be considered favourites. However, they have obvious strength in depth and Mourinho’s personal history in this competition, so writing them off at this stage would be stupid.
Our landlord takes a look at what two players Mourinho needs to ensure possible Champions League victory…
Paul Pogba
The French international is having his first tough time at Old Trafford, and amidst reports of unhappiness and regrets, Paul Pogba needs to step his game up. If United need anyone to play at 100%, it’s the £89m man. One of the players of the tournament en route to Juventus’ journey to the final in 2015, he could really do with getting back to that sort of form.
Pogba needs to start owning the pitch and it can start against Sevilla in front of his own fans, before building in the later rounds.
Alexis Sanchez
With the arrival of Sanchez, Pogba has gone missing somewhat, but the Chilean needs to work with the Frenchman to break down and create the pockets of space. Few sides in the Champions League have such a ridiculously talented duo readily on offer and, if they can find their spark, the pair could be a joy to watch.
Needs to start paying back some of those big wages.
