Europa League not ‘lifeline’ for Benfica, says Jorge Jesus ahead of Arsenal tie
The Portuguese side head into the first leg having won just two of their last eight games in all competitions.
The Portuguese side head into the first leg having won just two of their last eight games in all competitions.
The round of 32 draw threw up an interesting clash between the Premier League high fliers and in-form LaLiga side.
The Belgium international joined Real Sociedad in 2017 for a fee rising to £9.8million.
The promising centre-back continues to build on an unforgettable Manchester United debut.
Old Trafford will host the return leg of the round of 32 clash with Real Sociedad but the first fixture will be played in Turin.
Partey will miss the Leeds game on Sunday with a hamstring injury.
The moves have been made because of issues arising from coronavirus restrictions relating to both clubs’ opponents.
The two-leg tie is set to run into difficulties because of strict new UK coronavirus rules on arrivals from Portugal.
There is plenty to look forward to.
The Leicester striker was taken off during Sunday’s 2-0 win at Tottenham.
Tottenham face Wolfsberger, Arsenal meet Benfica, Leicester tackle Sparta Prague and Rangers are paired with Royal Antwerp.
Spurs needed a win to be seeded for the last-32 draw.
Balogun, who scored in the Europa League win over Dundalk, is out of contract at Arsenal next summer.
Mohamed Elneny was also among the scorers in a 4-2 win in the Europa League.
The likes of Manchester United and Ajax will join Tottenham in the Europa League knockout rounds.