Manchester United’s group stage Champions League match against Villarreal has been declared as a potentially ‘high-risk’ game.
Next Tuesday, the Red Devils will go to Spain to play their last season finale rivals in the UCL. United fans have been given 2000 seats out of a total of 23,500. As a result, they will be hoping for a win on the night to secure a spot in the Round of 16.
Man United defeated Villarreal by a 2-1 scoreline at Old Trafford in September. Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Alex Telles secured the hard-fought win for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Villarreal is not an unfamiliar opponent for United, as the Spanish team had defeated us in the UEFA Europa League finals last season. United have not faced Villarreal away from home since 2008.
The game against the men in yellow, however, has been labeled a ‘high risk’ for violence by Spain’s Interior Ministry. Although no reason for the notice has been given, travelers should be aware of it and use it cautiously once in Spain.
The Interior Ministry of Spain issued the following statement (via The Metro):
“The State Commission against violence, racism, xenophobia, and intolerance in sport has declared the Champions League match between Villarreal and Manchester United on November 23 as high risk.”
Furthermore, for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, this is a crucial match. After losing to Liverpool and Man City before the break, the Norwegian is under pressure to turn things around.
He must inspire the team to win because a loss will set them up for a difficult match against BSC Young Boys two weeks later. Regardless, the major focus will be on Saturday’s match against Watford.
