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Nemanja Matić had a warm reunion with Manchester United staff, calling them his “brothers” before Lyon’s Europa League game against his former team.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Nemanja Matić and Manchester United met again as Lyon faced the English team in the Europa League quarterfinals. Before the game, Matić was seen happily meeting old friends at United, calling them his “brothers.” He spent five years at Old Trafford before leaving and said he was glad to see familiar faces. This happened as Lyon got ready to play United in the second leg of a very close quarterfinal match.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Matić’s meeting with United staff reminded fans of his time at the club. He almost won the Premier League and played in several domestic and European finals, but didn’t win a trophy with United. Even though he once criticized the club for caring more about money than winning, Matić still respects the club and its people. He now coaches Lyon, where they have the important goal of winning the Europa League and qualifying for European football next season if they can finish in the top-4. They are just 4 points behind 2nd place Marseille in the Ligue 1.
WHAT NEXT?
After seeing his old friends, Matić will go back to Old Trafford next week when Lyon plays in Manchester for the all-important second leg. The first game ended in an exciting 2-2 draw, so the contest is very balanced. Lyon will count on Matić’s leadership and experience for the big game, while Manchester United, under their coach Ruben Amorim, will hope to win at home. The match will be both emotional and competitive, and Matić will be a key in Lyon’s attempt to reach the semifinals.
