Under-pressure manager Erik ten Hag will lead Manchester United to face FC Porto on Matchday 2 of the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League season. Keep reading for all the essential details about what promises to be a crucial game in Ten Hag’s managerial tenure.
UEFA Europa League: FC Porto vs Manchester United – Where to Watch in US
Manchester United will visit Estadio do Dragao for their UEFA Europa League clash with Portuguese giants FC Porto. The match will start at 8 PM BST / 3 PM ET / 12 PM PT on Thursday, October 3.
Fans of Manchester United in the United States can watch the game live on TUDN USA or Paramount+. Paramount+ is offering a 7-day free trial for new subscribers.
FC Porto vs Manchester United – Preview
Form
The home team FC Porto has been in exceptional form in the Primeira Liga. Vítor Bruno’s side has played seven league games, winning six and losing one. Sitting in second place in the league with 18 points, Porto secured a comfortable 4-0 victory over Arouca in their last league match on Sunday, September 29.
However, Porto suffered a surprising defeat in their UEFA Europa League opener, losing 3-2 to Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt despite taking the lead.
On the other hand, Manchester United has been struggling in the Premier League. Ten Hag’s team has gathered only seven points from their first six league games, their joint-worst start in history. This poor form sees them placed 13th in the league standings.
The Red Devils experienced a heavy 3-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford in their last league game on Sunday. Manchester United also failed to shine in the Europa League, drawing 1-1 with FC Twente on Matchday 1. With disappointing results, Ten Hag is facing intense scrutiny and will need to deliver in the upcoming weeks to secure his position.
Team News
Arsenal loanee Fabio Vieira is back from a back injury for Porto, with Ivan Marcano (ACL) being the only first-team player missing for the clash against Man Utd.
Meanwhile, Manchester United will be without Mason Mount (knock), Tyrell Malacia (knee), Leny Yoro (foot), and Luke Shaw (calf) for the upcoming game.
Head-to-Head
Porto and Manchester United have faced each other eight times in European competitions. United slightly leads the head-to-head record with three wins compared to Porto’s two, with three matches ending in draws.
FC Porto vs Manchester United – Prediction
Since his arrival in 2022, Ten Hag has navigated through challenging situations, often being saved by his players at crucial moments. We anticipate another rescue effort on Thursday and predict Manchester United to secure a 2-1 victory in their visit to Portugal.
