Gabby Agbonlahor has slammed Manchester United, questioning their Champions League readiness as they try to qualify by winning the Europa League.
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Article continues below
Article continues below
- Man Utd could still reach Champions League
- Agbonlahor doubts their ability to compete
- Urged stars to step up against Athletic Club
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WHAT HAPPENED?
The former Aston Villa star has cast doubt on United's ability to compete in Europe's top club competition next season as they continue their bid to earn a place. He believes the current squad is not up to par and would be embarrassed next season unless huge improvements are made in the summer transfer window. Agbonlahor also suggested that a large number of players are playing for their futures under manager Ruben Amorim, urging them to "just do your job" and avoid mistakes in their crucial Europa League semi-final against Athletic Club.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
United's season has been plagued by inconsistency and underperformance in the Premier League, leaving their Champions League qualification hopes hanging in the balance. While a Europa League triumph would secure a spot in next season's competition, concerns remain about the squad's overall quality and ability to compete with the continent's very best.
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WHAT GABBY AGBONLAHOR SAID
Speaking on talkSPORT, Agbonlahor said: "As much as Manchester United want to get into the Champions League this year, are they ready? Would they get the players in time before the season starts to build a squad to not embarrass themselves in the Champions League? Because the squad that we've got now would not do well in the Champions League."
Discussing under-fire goalkeeper Andre Onana and United's other underperforming stars, Agbonlahor added: "Can you have a quiet game tonight [against Athletic Club]? Can you just do your job? Can you not make any mistakes? Can you not take too many risks playing from the back as well? There's a lot of players that are probably playing for their future as well."
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WHAT NEXT FOR MAN UTD?
United face Athletic Club in the Europa League semi-finals on Thursday evening, needing a positive result to take back to Old Trafford for the second leg next week. Beyond the immediate fixture and the end of the Premier League season, the club faces a crucial summer of recruitment, with Amorim keen to overhaul his squad after another disappointing domestic campaign.
