Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has called on Manchester United’s “big players” to step up as his team look to avoid a third semi-final loss of the season in the Europa League against Sevilla.
Having required extra-time to see off FC Copenhagen 1-0 in Monday’s quarter-final, United will return to Stadion Koln on Sunday in search of a place in August 21 finale.
United are looking to make it third time lucky having lost in the semi-final stage of the Carabao Cup and FA Cup, with Solskjaer underlining the importance of grasping this opportunity.
“You know that when you come to a semi-final, you’re playing against big teams,” the Norwegian said. “Good teams with quality
“It’s time to step up for big players, big game moments.
“You have to have 100 percent focus because any little moment can change the game.
“We’ve learned that it’s very painful to lose a semi-final.”
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United have remained in Cologne since Monday’s match and Solskjaer believes they are ready for the threat posed by Sevilla.
“We’ve had a few good days now preparing, both recovering and preparing, training,” Solskjaer said.
“Not very often we have six days between games, so we’re ready.
“We are physically definitely ready. Mentally the boys will be ready because a semi-final everyone would want to take part and join in. I just want them to enjoy it.
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“For me as well, looking forward to the semis. We’ve been already twice now in the semi this season.
“Of course we’re happy with going as far as we have but we’re not satisfied. We want to go one step further.”
Bruno Fernandes sealed United’s place in the Europa League semi-finals by keeping his nerve from the spot, securing a 1-0 extra-time victory against FC Copenhagen on Monday.