Manchester United have been handed a major boost ahead of their Europa League last 16 tie, with a key Real Betis player set to miss the rest of the season through injury.
The Red Devils defeated Barcelona in the play-off round tie to earn a last 16 clash with another Spanish side, having already faced Barca and Real Sociedad.
Erik ten Hag's side have since won the Carabao Cup, and remain in contention to win both the FA Cup and the Premier League.
But they face a Betis side managed by Manuel Pellegrini, who has never conceded a goal to United in any of the four European ties he has taken charge of against them.
Advert
Betis are enjoying another strong campaign in La Liga, currently placed in fifth position with 40 points from 23 games. They are three points behind third-placed Sociedad.
Furthermore, Pellegrini's side have won their last three games in the league. But they have been dealt a significant blow ahead of taking on United.
Real Betis star out of Man Utd clash
During Betis' 3-2 win over Elche on February 24, midfield star Nabil Fekir suffered an injury - but went on to complete the full 90 minutes during the match.
However, Betis later confirmed via their official website that the 29-year-old has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, which will rule him out of both legs of the Spanish side's tie against United, and for the remainder of the season.
The Frenchman ruptured his cruciate ligament back in 2015, whilst at Lyon. He missed seven months of action, before returning to net 14 goals in all competitions in the following season.
Betis will be hoping Fekir can have a similar impact this time around upon his return, but for now they will have to call on other options to take on United.
His replacement could be influential midfielder Sergio Canales, with Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo claiming he will return from injury in time for the first leg on March 9.
Topics: Manchester United, Premier League, Europa League, Real Betis
Ryan Smart