19 April 2023 , 12:49
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David de Gea and Casemiro will have to prepare their Manchester United team-mates for their "suffering" experience at Sevilla, according to Ivan Rakitic.
The Croatian, who claimed Europa League glory with the LaLiga outfit in 2014, has experienced the atmosphere and hostility at the Ramón Sánchez–Pizjuán as both a home and visiting player. United need to go to Andalusia and get a result on Thursday night if they are to make the last four.
Two late goals last week left the tie in the balance and the Red Devils must show their character at a ground which will not be kind. Casemiro and De Gea have both played at the stadium as visiting players during their spells in the capital - and will be tasked with prepping the squad.
Rakitic told Spanish outlet AS : "De Gea or Casemiro, who have played here, will surely explain to them that this is something else. You get anywhere and they say that this is Sevilla’s competition. They are going to have to suffer, I cannot guarantee that we will qualify but we are going to leave everything on the field."
Casemiro has been an inspired signing since arriving from Real Madrid, which has been underlined by United's win record when he's been absent. The Brazilian has bought notable leadership to the team and is likely to relish the atmosphere in Seville.
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Rakitic also added: "These people don't know what awaits them on Thursday. It is a team with a lot of experience and many millions, but United does not know what Ramón Sanchez-Pizjuán is like packed. I know from when I was at Barcelona that players from other teams sing the Sevilla anthem on the pitch. It's unique. What our fans have created is very impressive."
Sevilla secured a late draw at Old Trafford last week (PA)Sevilla have struggled in LaLiga, but Europe has provided them with a chance to save their season. United are yet to beat the Spanish side in their history, losing to them in the knockout stages of the Champions League in 2018.
Erik ten Hag's side have found results on the road hard to come by, especially against the top sides. They've struggled against the elite teams in the Premier League, but will have to produce in southern Spain if they want to keep up their hopes of a cup treble.
The Europa League remains the last European trophy claimed by the club, which came during Jose Mourinho's tenure. Marcus Rashford played in that success six years ago and has been a leading light this term, but is facing a race against time to be fit for Thursday night having just returned to training.