Europa League: Rene Meulensteen praises Maguire, Mainoo after Man Utd comeback

Former Manchester United assistant coach under Sir Alex Ferguson, Rene Meulensteen, has praised Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo following the Red Devils’ dramatic Europa League quarter-final second-leg victory over Lyon on Thursday night.

United were on the brink of a shocking exit at Old Trafford after squandering a 2-0 first-half lead. Despite Lyon being reduced to 10 men, the French side fought back to take a 4-2 lead during the game, leaving United trailing on aggregate.

But United scored three goals in the final seven minutes of extra-time to qualify for the semi-finals on a 7-6 aggregate win.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Meulensteen credited Maguire and Mainoo for their crucial goals during the comeback.

“Manchester United were down and out. Credit where credit is due with Ruben Amorim,” Meulensteen said.

“He puts Harry Maguire upfront, and even though Lyon went 4-2 up with the penalty, you could sense them crumbling.”

He continued: “Credit to the way Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire took their goals—absolutely amazing. Everyone walked away in disbelief. Ruben Amorim couldn’t get into the dressing room quick enough!”

Manchester United will now face Spanish side Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals, as they continue their push for Europa League glory.