The Manchester United lineup that should start against Real Sociedad

The Europa League is back this week and it includes Manchester United for the first time this season.

After falling out of the Champions League, the Red Devils enter the tournament at the last 32 round and will take on Spanish side Real Sociedad as they look to win a trophy for the first time under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The Reds are in the midst of a top four battle domestically, after only two wins in seven saw them fall away from the top of the table. Solskjaer must now decide on his team selection with the fixture schedule so hectic and how best to balance both tournaments but also to get some momentum back with a win.

Here's the team he should start to both ensure a win and allow some key players a rest.

1. Goalkeeper and Defenders

Dean Henderson (GK) - Henderson has been the cup goalkeeper all season and a good performance again could get him closer to the number one jersey.

Axel Tuanzebe (RB) - Primarily a centre back, Tuanzebe deputised well at right back earlier in the season and his inclusion would allow for Aaron Wan-Bissaka to get a rest.

Eric Bailly (CB) - The Ivorian was in excellent form before yet another injury, but he's due a game and his pace will be helpful here.

Harry Maguire (CB) - The skipper probably needs a rest but with the current form of the side, Solskjaer is likely to want his first choice defender in the side.

Alex Telles (LB) - Since joining from Porto in the summer, Telles has found himself behind Luke Shaw in the pecking order but has played relatively well when called upon.

2. Midfielders

Nemanja Matic (CM) - Arguably Manchester United's best defensive midfielder, his lack of legs have seen him fall behind the McFred duo but his experience and quality will be needed here.

Fred (CM) - Paul Pogba's injury means United are a bit short on options centrally, so Fred will start once again for added security defensively.

Juan Mata (AM) - With Bruno Fernandes likely to be rested and Donny Van de Beek out with a muscle injury, Mata should return to the side in his preferred role centrally back in his homeland.

3. Forwards

Amad Diallo (RW) - The January signing from Atalanta was on the bench against West Ham in the FA Cup but didn't come on. He could make his first-team debut here after six goal contributions in two games with the Under-23s.

Mason Greenwood (ST) - Recently rewarded with a brand-new contract, he'll be keen to get back among the goals for United and will start here with Martial a doubt and Cavani ruled out with injury.

Daniel James (LW) - Some decent performances from the bench mean James should be trusted from the start to allow Marcus Rashford some much needed rest.