Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur embark on their Europa League campaigns this week, seeking solace from disappointing Premier League starts.
Erik ten Hag’s United have struggled to improve upon last season’s dismal performance, languishing outside the top 10 with just seven points from five matches. Despite heavy spending in the transfer market, the expected resurgence has yet to materialize.
United’s Europa League opener against Twente on Wednesday is crucial, as anything less than a victory would intensify pressure on Ten Hag. The Dutch club, returning to the competition for the first time since 2012, poses a significant challenge.
Tottenham, under Ange Postecoglou, have also faced growing discontent among fans. After a blistering start to the season, successive Premier League defeats have dampened spirits. The Europa League, now without teams dropping down from the Champions League, presents a golden opportunity for Spurs to end their trophy drought.
They host Qarabag on Thursday, hoping to build on their recent 3-1 victory over Brentford. Postecoglou remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in achieving success.
Elsewhere, crisis-hit Roma welcome Athletic Bilbao to the Stadio Olimpico. The Serie A club has enjoyed recent success in Europe, reaching the Europa League semi-finals three times in the past four seasons. However, the sacking of coach Daniele De Rossi has sparked fury among supporters, who have expressed their anger towards management and players.
Other notable Europa League fixtures include 2022 winners Eintracht Frankfurt hosting Viktoria Plzen, while four-time European champions Ajax take on Besiktas in Amsterdam.
