FCSB vs Manchester United LIVE – Can Amorim’s Side Avoid a Play-Off Round?

Manchester United head to Romania to take on FCSB live in their final Europa League group-stage encounter.

Follow the live blog here courtesy The Independent for all key moments from the match.

With qualification already secured, a victory would guarantee first place in the group and direct progression to the Round of 16, avoiding the additional play-off round.

FCSB, on the other hand, have no chance of advancing but will be eager to test themselves against one of Europe’s most established clubs in what will be their last European outing of the season.

Match Details

• Venue: National Arena, Bucharest
• Kick-off: 20:00 GMT, Thursday 30 January
• Where to Watch: TNT Sports (UK), MUTV (pre/post-match coverage)

Team Form and Recent Performances

Manchester United

United have been in commanding form in the Europa League, winning all four of their previous group-stage matches. Their last fixture was a hard-fought 4-3 victory against Rangers, where Bruno Fernandes netted the decisive goal, becoming only the second United player after Marcus Rashford to score 10 or more goals in the competition.

FCSB

The Romanian side have performed respectably in Europe, remaining unbeaten in four consecutive matches. They registered wins against Midtjylland and Qarabag while drawing against Olympiacos and Hoffenheim. Their only defeat came at Rangers, where they suffered a heavy 4-0 loss. Despite their elimination, they remain a well-drilled side, sitting second in their domestic league standings.

Key Players to Watch

FCSB

With captain Darius Olaru ruled out following shoulder surgery, the responsibility in attack will fall on Daniel Birligea, who has already found the net three times in the competition. Between the posts, Stefan Tarnovanu has been one of their standout performers, having kept four clean sheets in seven Europa League appearances.

Manchester United

Bruno Fernandes continues to be United’s key creative force, while Rasmus Højlund will be looking to make an impact in the final third. In defense, Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez will aim to neutralize FCSB’s aerial threats, while goalkeeper Andre Onana will hope to maintain stability at the back.

Injury Updates and Suspensions

Manchester United

• Victor Lindelof made his return to the squad in United’s recent Premier League fixture against Fulham after a month-long absence.
• Manuel Ugarte has retained a place on the bench after sustaining a knock in the win at Craven Cottage.

FCSB

• Captain Darius Olaru is unavailable after undergoing shoulder surgery.
• Midfielders Octavian Popescu and Mihai Lixandru are also ruled out due to long-term injuries.

Head-to-Head Record

• This will be the first competitive meeting between Manchester United and FCSB.
• United have faced Romanian clubs six times, winning five of those matches. The only loss came against CFR Cluj in 2012.
• FCSB have a poor record against English opposition, losing their last seven matches by an aggregate score of 20-2.

What’s at Stake?

Manchester United: A win ensures they finish top of the group, securing a direct route to the Round of 16 and avoiding the additional knockout play-off round. A draw could still be enough, but a defeat could make their European journey more complicated.

FCSB: With elimination already confirmed, their primary goal will be to end their European campaign with a positive performance against a high-caliber opponent.

Where and When to Watch

The match will take place at National Arena in Bucharest, with kick-off set for 20:00 GMT on Thursday, January 30. Fans in the UK can watch live on TNT Sports, with additional pre-match coverage on MUTV from 18:55 GMT. Live updates will also be available via the Manchester United App.

United’s strong European form and superior squad depth make them clear favorites for this fixture. While FCSB may put up a resilient fight, their defensive frailties against top-level opponents could be exposed. If United play to their strengths, they should come away with a straightforward victory.