Michael Owen predicts Manchester United misery vs Atletico Madrid

Michael Owen admitted he still has doubts over Manchester United ahead of their clash with Atletico Madrid, despite the victory over Leeds.

Fred and Anthony Elanga scored on Sunday to quash a fightback from Marcelo Bielsa's side that had seen United's first half two-goal lead evaporate within minutes of the restart.

Atletico have struggled to maintain heights they set last season when winning La Liga; this season has been disappointing as they sit fifth — though they won their last game 3-0, against Osasuna.

And former United striker Owen has doubts over the credentials of Ralf Rangnick's side against a team of European pedigree like Diego Simeone's troops.

"This is an interesting one. Atletico have had a strange season and have underperformed," he told BetVictor.

"Defensively, they’ve had lots of issues, which is unheard of for a Diego Simeone side.

"I would never rule them out in these big games though, particularly at home, and I know Simeone will have his side really up for this one.

"As for United, they got the win at Leeds at the weekend but again, there’s issues at the back. In these high-intensity matches, are United physically good enough against the top sides? I have my doubts.

"I can see Atletico edging this, and I wouldn’t be shocked if Luis Suarez got a goal.

"I don’t think there will be much between these two in both games, but I can see Atletico taking a narrow lead to Manchester."

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