Real Sociedad are hoping to forget their struggles this season and compound Premier League giants Manchester United's when they meet on Thursday in the Europa League last 16. The Basque side host Ruben Amorim's tormented Red Devils in San Sebastian before the second leg at Old Trafford next week. Real Sociedad suffered a 4-0 thumping at La Liga leaders Barcelona on Sunday, continuing a poor domestic campaign, although they were missing several regular starters and were reduced to 10 men early on.
"It's in the past now and we have to prepare as best as we can for the game on Thursday," said coach Imanol Alguacil.
Sitting ninth in La Liga the Europa League represents their best hope of silverware this season, as is also the case for United, who flunked out of the FA Cup on penalties against Fulham on Sunday.
La Real are also in the Copa del Rey semi-finals but a 1-0 home defeat by Real Madrid in the first leg leaves them in a tough spot before the return in April.
With the Europa League final taking place at the home of their bitter rivals Athletic Bilbao, Alguacil's side have all the stimulus they need.
"It motivates Athletic for sure, and us too," said club spokesman Xabi Prieto at the group stage draw in August.
Luka Sucic and Spain's Euro 2024 final hero Mikel Oyarzabal should return after knocks to face Manchester United.
Live-wire winger Takefusa Kubo missed the defeat at Barcelona through suspension and will be fresh for Thursday's clash.
After Aritz Elustondo's early red card against Barcelona, Alguacil said he made decisions with the Man United Europa League tie in mind, including taking off key midfielder Martin Zubimendi at half-time, as he was suffering some discomfort.
"I thought about minimising the risks and
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