Owen Hargreaves has described the Europa League as a “must win” competition for both Manchester United and Arsenal this season - if they are to find a way back into the Champions League.
United kick-off their Europa League campaign this evening at home to Kazakhstan outfit FC Astana, offering them a great chance to lay down a marker and record three points in Group L.
The Red Devils, winners of the competition in 2017, were forced into participating in the Europa League this term after missing out on a Champions League place last season.
But with the race for the top four in the Premier League more competitive than ever, Hargreaves believes United have got to make the very best of the Europa League to try and give them a pathway back into Europe’s top club competition.
Hargreaves, who played for the Old Trafford club between 2007 and 2011, said on BT Sport: "I think it is massive for both of them. They have fallen behind. This is a competition that is must win for both of them.
“I don't see either of them finishing in the top four the way they have been playing. I think the best way for them to get in there is this competition.
“Manchester United with all their young players it is a great opportunity for them against smaller teams.”
Hargreaves also spoke of the importance of Arsenal making the most of the competition.
The Gunners were defeated in the final of the Europa League last season - going down 4-1 to Chelsea - meaning they missed the chance to book themselves a spot in this season’s Champions League.
“I think for Arsenal, again with the players they have, can they find a way to win this competition,” added Hargreaves. “They have one of the best squads in the competition but they have a tough test tonight against Frankfurt.”
