Rangers vs Man Utd: Europa League odds, potential last 16 opponents and how much money can be made
Yesterday at 03:30 PM
Rangers travel to Old Trafford to face Man Utd with more than just pride or three points at stake in what was the game everyone was looking forward to when the draw was first made.
Given the recent fortunes of the two teams, especially in Europe, an Ibrox tie would probably have only made a small difference as Philippe Clement looks to pull off what seemed impossible when the Europa League draw was made.
The manager could have done with a fully fit squad, however, a win for Rangers over Man Utd has additional benefits.
Why would beating Man Utd be important for Rangers?
The draw for the knockout stages in the new Europa League format has, theoretically, already been made. Whatever position a team finishes in the league, seals their fate.
As an example, if Rangers sneak into the top eight, they will face one of the teams from 9th, 10th, 23rd or 24th in the last 16.
Currently, those teams are; Tottenham Hotspur, FCSB, Elfsborg and Midtjylland, all familiar names to those of a Light Blue persuasion – PAOK and Braga are also in the mix.
Facing a team in the league phase doesn't rule them out as potential knockout opponents.
Three points against Man Utd wouldn't guarantee qualification, however, Galatasaray's draw against Dynamo Kyiv is a bonus, they are now only two points in front in fifth place with Rangers yet to play and the Turks having Ajax away from home in the final round of games.
Before that game, Rangers’ chances of making the top eight were predicted to be 26%, 51% for finishing 9-16 and 100% of making the top 24.
Rangers last game is Union Saint Gilloise, who are currently languishing near the bottom of the 32-team table, it’s just a shame that Clement can’t add any new players to his squad until February the 6th.
What is the Europa League prize money?
If Rangers miss out on the top eight and qualify for the knockout playoff round, they will receive €300,000 (£253,300), with around €1.75m (£1.5m) for making it to the last 16.
For reaching the quarter-finals €2.5m (£2.1m) is awarded and €4.2m (£3.5) for achieving unlikely progress to the semi-finals.
Europa League finalists will pocket €7m (£5.9m), with an added bonus of €6m (£5m) for the winners and automatic qualification to the Champions League.
When are the Europa League knockout stages?
Knockout round play-offs: 13th and 20th February
Last 16: 6th and 13th March
Quarter-finals: 10th and 17th April
Semi-finals: 1st and 8th May
When is the Europa League final 2025?
Final: 21st May (Estadio de San Mamés, Bilbao)
You just know that if Rangers beat Man Utd, someone will be booking their flights and hotel to Bilbao, just in case.
