Manchester United’s reward for Real Sociedad is a Europa League last 16 clash against Milan.
Our initial reaction is ‘bring it on’, and United are one of the favourites to lift the trophy for a reason.
Of course there there are positive and negative elements to the draw.
United have avoided any of the British teams remaining in the competition, but face some familiar faces.
Positives
Good time to play them
Milan have had a strong season and sit second in Serie A, behind local rivals Inter.
But they’ve suffered two straight defeats, including a loss to their bitter foes last weekend.
Perhaps there are signs there that Milan are starting to slow down and it could be a good time to play them.
United will need to do a professional job, but their opponents are not having their best moment of the season.
Proper European night
This game feels like it should be a Champions League clash.
United and Milan have enjoyed some fine battles on Europe’s biggest stage during Sir Alex Ferguson’s reign.
There were plenty of tricky available opponents but none which carry the prestige of Milan.
It’s a shame fans won’t be there to see it, but this will be a proper European clash.
Negatives
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
There weren’t many tougher tests available in the draw than a battle with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
United’s central defenders have been under the microscope in recent weeks and the former Old Trafford forward will give them a stern test.
He will want to show United what they’re missing, and inspire Milan to victory.
That said, it will also be good to see him back at Old Trafford, given the impact he made in his time with the club.
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