Real Sociedad vs Man Utd: Is the match on TV? Plus team news, referee, kick-off time & prediction

Manchester United face Real Sociedad in their final group match of the Europa League on Thursday evening. Erik ten Hag’s side need to win by two clear goals to finish top of Group E.

The Red Devils have picked up 12 points in their opening five matches after enduring their only loss in their opening match against the Spanish club in September. The 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford means Imanol Alguacil’s side have the advantage ahead of tomorrow’s clash.

While United have progressed past the group stages no matter what tomorrow’s result is, they would certainly prefer to finish top. The eight group winners would automatically qualify for the round of 16, however runners-up will have to compete in a two-legged play-off against one of the third-placed Champions League teams. This includes the likes of Juventus, Barcelona and Ajax - teams United will do their best to avoid.

Ahead of the clash, here is all the key information.

When is Real Sociedad vs Man Utd?

Real Sociedad vs Man Utd will kick off at 5:45pm on Thursday 3rd November 2022. The La Liga outfit will host the clash at the Real Arena in San Sebastian. The stadium can hold 39,313 fans.

Referee appointment

Bulgarian referee Georgi Kabakov is set to take charge in Spain tomorrow evening. The 36-year-old previously officiated in United’s Champions League clash with Valencia in 2018, with the Spaniards claiming a 2-1 victory.

Real Sociedad vs Man Utd team news

The Red Devils are to be handed a huge boost with the return of Anthony Martial. The Frenchman has scored three goals this season but has only made four appearances due to injury and has been absence since their 2-1 win over Everton almost a month ago. Victor Lindelof is also set to return to the fold after recovering from an injury, while Raphael Varane remains a long-term absentee.

Meanwhile, it is unclear whether Jadon Sancho and Antony will travel to Spain after neither were seen in training this morning. The latter missed out on the win over West Ham at the weekend and was expected to return in time for tomorrow.

Real Sociedad have a number of injury concerns, with Takefusa Kubo ruled out with a dislocated shoulder, while former Man City midfielder David Silva is expected to join Mikel Oyarzabal, Momo Cho and Umar Sadiq on the sidelines.

Score prediction

United are in need of a win tomorrow and will be confident as they look to extend their eight-game unbeaten run. The return of Martial will give them a massive boost and could drag them over the line in Spain.

Our prediction: Real Sociedad 1-2 Man Utd