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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Matthew Hobkinson

Manchester United have already suffered major blow ahead of Europa League play-off vs Barcelona

Manchester United will be without Lisandro Martinez for their crucial first-leg away trip to Barcelona in their Europa League play-off.

Erik ten Hag's side failed to beat Real Sociedad by the required two-goal margin that would have seen them become group winners in their last Europa League match, as Alejandro Garnacho's first goal for the club sealed a 1-0 victory in Spain. Following the result, United now have to take part in a two-legged play-off in February to progress to the round of 16.

The Reds knew they were going to come up against one of the eight clubs that finished third in their Champions League group, with their next opponents now being confirmed. United will have to beat Barcelona over two legs if Ten Hag is to emulate the club's success in 2017 - where the club beat the Dutchman's former side Ajax in the final.

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