FC Porto’s Joao Mario claimed that his side are aiming to capitalise on Manchester United’s weaknesses tomorrow night.
The 24-year-old right back has played seven times this season for Porto, assisting one goal.
The Primeira Liga side have made a strong start to the season, winning six out of their league seven games but just like United, started below par in the Europa League, losing their opening match to 10-man Bodø/Glimt 3-2.
United did slightly better but still only managed a lacklustre 1-1 home draw with FC Twente, meaning both sides will be desperate for the three points.
Pressure is already ramping up on United and their manager Erik ten Hag after they were taken apart by Tottenham Hotspur 0-3 and lie in a worrisome 13th position in the Premier League.
Speaking to the media before the match (via O Jogo), Mario claimed his side were looking to bounce back from a poor start to their European adventure.
“The main objective is always the championship. We knew we had to give a strong image after that game. It’s over, it’s time to learn from mistakes and give a good response against Manchester United.”
The Portugal international also stated that the Dragões will be up for the occasion against one of the biggest sides in European football.
“Yes, we’ll have a more publicised game, where we’ll be facing a European giant and a very difficult team, but we have our strengths; we’ll try and exploit their weaknesses and go in to win, as always.”
Porto have an impressive record to protect at the Estádio do Dragão as they have only lost once this calendar year at their home, a shock defeat to Vitória Guimarães in April.
The Red Devils on the other hand have shown they have weaknesses in abundance after the abject performance versus Spurs at the weekend and will need to up their game massively to even secure a point.
With Erik ten Hag’s future reportedly tied to the next two matches before the international break, this is certainly one he can ill afford to lose.
Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images
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