class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>Having exchanged memorable blows in the past, Al Hain-Cole expects the Red Devils and Pioli's men to serve up an entertaining Europa League encounter
A heavyweight Europa League clash takes place at Old Trafford on Thursday when Manchester United host AC Milan in the first leg of their last-16 tie.
These sides were frequent adversaries in the Champions League knockout stages in previous decades, exchanging blows on three occasions as they reached a combined six finals in nine years between 2003 and 2011.
Manchester United vs AC Milan Latest Odds
Having run out 7-2 aggregate winners in the most recent encounter back in 2010, the Red Devils can be backed at 8/13 (1.62) with bet365 to rekindle the rivalry with another victory.
The Italians defeated this opposition en route to both the 2005 and 2007 Champions League finals and are available at 9/2 (5.50) to remain on course to glory in this competition with a big win here.
Six of the hosts’ last nine matches have resulted in draws and you can get odds of 3/1 (4.00) on them playing out yet another stalemate here.
Manchester United vs AC Milan Team News
Luke Shaw, Donny van de Beek, Edinson Cavani, and Marcus Rashford are all doubtful due to injury, while Phil Jones and Paul Pogba are definitely ruled out and David de Gea unavailable due to personal reasons.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic will face a late fitness test as he hopes to return to his former ground, with Theo Hernandez, Daniele Bonera, Ismael Bennacer, Hakan Calhanoglu, and Mario Mandzukic all occupying a long injury list.
Manchester United vs AC Milan Preview
While it may lack the glamour and superstar quality of these sides’ late 00s glory years, this tie still looks well set up to provide plenty of entertainment.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men are unlikely to feel short of confidence after Sunday’s impressive derby win over Manchester City, while their return of 19 goals from eight Champions League and Europa League games this season bodes well for more joy in attack.
However, the Rossoneri have only failed to score once in 26 matches on the road, albeit keeping just one clean sheet in their last seven fixtures home and away.
Manchester United vs AC Milan Tips and Predictions
All in all, odds of 3/4 (1.75) look like solid value on Manchester United and AC Milan living up to their name and providing goals at both ends in an exciting Europa League clash.
All odds correct at time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.