27 goals this season - Manchester United could hand starlet squad debut for massive Lyon clash

It might be Manchester United's biggest match of the season, but that doesn't mean they can be afraid to give youth a chance when they host Lyon in the Europa League tonight. Ruben Amorim's side are certain to record their lowest ever Premier League finish, yet they could redeem their season if they win the Europa League and secure Champions League qualification.

United are level with the Ligue 1 club following the first leg in France last week but can take great belief from the fact they were the better side in that match and were only let down by two individual errors from Andre Onana. The Cameroonian goalkeeper is certain to start at Old Trafford tonight, while there will also be a change in attack.

Joshua Zirkzee scored against Lyon last week but has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a hamstring injury. It means United only have one fit senior striker available for the huge Europa League clash and they might have to call upon an academy prospect instead.

Gabriele Biancheri could get his chance

Rasmus Hojlund will lead the line when Manchester United face Lyon in their Europa League quarter-final second leg, but with only two goals in his last 26 appearances at club level, they might some extra firepower from the bench. The injury to Joshua Zirkzee is an even heavier blow given that wonderkid Chido Obi in ineligible to feature in European competition for the remainder of the season.

It means fellow teenager Gabriele Biancheri could be the player promoted to the matchday squad and give Ruben Amorim another option to choose from if required. The 18-year-old trained with the first team squad on the eve of the match and is in contention to earn his first senior call-up for the massive clash.

Biancheri has already netted an impressive 20 goals in 30 appearances across the different youth teams this season, with five of those at U21 level. He also has seven goals in nine appearances for the Welsh U19 side, including two against Italy, another country he is eligible to represent at senior level.

It would be a whirlwind rise for Biancheri, who can be named on the B-List for the match due to the fact he has spent two interrupted years at the club, having signed from Cardiff in February 2023. It was reported back in February that United turned down an approach from Serie A side Como to sign the teenage striker, who is viewed as a player with potential first-team credentials at Old Trafford.

Given his huge potential, Biancheri could be a transfer target for clubs again this summer, either on a loan exit or a permanent deal if the offer is too good to turn down. As one of the hottest young talents in the United academy, it is understandable why there is so much excitement around the teenager. It will only grow further if he gets onto the pitch tonight.

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