Manchester United’s chances of finishing in the top-four have taken a blow following a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday and manager Jose Mourinho is now pinning all his hopes on winning the Europa League.
The Red Devils are currently fifth in the Premier League standings, but they are now four points behind fourth-place Manchester City, while Arsenal have also moved back into contention.
United have just three league games left to play this term, meaning their chances of securing Champions League qualification via their league position are looking slim.
Mourinho’s men can still qualify for Europe’s premier club competition by winning this season’s Europa League, as they hold a 1-0 advantage over Celta Vigo ahead of the second-leg of their semi-final tie at Old Trafford on Thursday.
The Portuguese coach admits his priority is now claiming overall glory on the continent, although he insists his side will still go all out to win their remaining domestic fixtures.
Mourinho told Sky Sports: “Yeah, all [focus] on the Europa League but today we tried to play for a result. You can tell me you didn’t play with the best team, the players who are first choice at the moment, but you cannot say we didn’t try to win the game.
“That is what we’re going to try to do in the remaining three matches in the Premier League but, obviously, everything for next Thursday.”
United have not claimed a major European trophy since winning the Champions League in 2008, but they are priced at 1.61 to end that wait this season.
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