On paper, Manchester United vs Atletico Madrid is one of the best ties in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. But there is no hiding from the fact that neither side has been nowhere near their best this season, and find themselves not in title races, but to finish in the top four of their respective leagues. It is safe to say that the situation is far from ideal.
But even then, one has to admit that Manchester United might be in a better position right now than Atletico Madrid.
Diego Simeone’s side look like a mere shadow of the team that had lifted the La Liga trophy in the previous campaign. Over their last 15 games across all competitions, they have lost an incredible 8. That is more than half!
On the other hand, Manchester United have Cristiano Ronaldo in their ranks and he would be expected to lead the line against Atletico Madrid. The Portuguese superstar has thrived against Simeone’s side over the years and fans will be hoping that he can prove to be the difference this time around as well, although, he has had his own worries with form this season.
Manchester United Predicted XI vs Atletico Madrid: Time for a Ronaldo special?
Here’s how we think Ralf Rangnick could line Manchester United up, when they face Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 tie:
David de Gea
It is safe to say that De Gea will be the one between the posts, when Manchester United take on the side where he came through the youth ranks and first made a name for himself, in the form of Atletico Madrid.
De Gea has already been in top form this season but you would have to feel that this game will mean more to him than most, and hopefully that will help take his game to the next level.