FC Twente head coach Joseph Oosting believes they can damage Manchester United on the transition, but he understands they won’t be able to upset the Europa League until they play at their best.
The new league kicks off at Old Trafford on Wednesday evening, with Erik ten Hag leading the Red Devils against the club where he earned his name.
United are the odds-on favourites to defeat the Eredivisie third-place finishers from last season, but Twente manager Oosting believes a result against the Premier League club is achievable.
“I always believe in opportunities,” he told me. “If we are willing to play, we can create possibilities. We can cause harm to Manchester, especially during the changeover.
“That is easier said than done, but the will is certainly there. We played games versus Red Bull (Salzburg, in the Champions League qualification round) that you might benefit from.
“Everything moves at a quick speed, whether on the ball or in defence. You must excel in all areas, and we require everyone’s participation. I believe we’ve also made progress in that area.
“We have respect for Manchester United, but we also have the full conviction and the will to get the most out of the game.”
Twente will be cheered on by around 4,000 fans at Old Trafford, the club’s highest ever European away crowd.
“I think that’s great that so many supporters have come this way to support us here,” he said.
“This afternoon, outside the hotel, we noticed fans walking. “I think that’s fantastic.”
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