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Manchester United is wary of Sevilla’s play-off champions when the groups face off in the Europa League semi-finals.
It was the warning of former United star Robin van Persie, who cited the Spanish club’s excellent track record at the festival as an explanation for why Ole Gunnar’s solskjaer team is on high alert in Cologne.
Sevilla has won the Europa League five times, twice in the UEFA Cup, and won the honour three times in a row between 2014 and 2016.
Even before this appearance as the dominant force in the eighth round of high school tournament in Europe, Sevilla had a profile that put them firmly on the radar of Dutchman Van Persie before despite everything that Feyenoord changed to Arsenal in 2004.
Julen Lopetegui’s men, unbeathed in 19 matches in all competitions, will be a risk to United on Sunday.
“[Sevilla is] one of the favorites, [but] first they have to draw Manchester United,” said Van Persie, who won the 2012-13 Premier League at Old Trafford, to Stats Perform News.
“They are cup fighters, to play these kinds of games.
“I almost spoke to them before my time at Arsenal, it’s one of the 3 features I can pass on. It’s tempting to pass, but then I chose Arsenal.”
United finished the national season with good taste to claim 3rd place in the Premier League, but it is a club that measures good fortune in trophies.
When asked if securing the cutlery is a prerequisite for the crusade to be a success, Van Persie said: “[The] last few months [have] definitely been positive, but they have to keep appearing, the tension is high.
“I can’t say that if they don’t win the season it’s not a success, after the break it looks positive. It’s promising for next season.”
Robin van Persie works with Enterprise Rent-A-Car, a partner of the UEFA Europa League. To be more informed and take advantage of special car rental rates across Europe, www.enterprise.co.uk