Does anyone actually want to win this competition? Based on the recent displays of Manchester United and Manchester City, it would appear not!
However, with two of the favourites having crashed out of the last round, the sides that have suddenly awoken with fresh intent are those that have nothing to lose but everything to gain - sides like Atletico Madrid, Metalist Kharkiv, and Schalke 04. These sides have nothing to compete for domestically now and can focus their efforts entirely on the UEFA Europa League.
So who is going to win this competition? I wouldn't look beyond Athletic Club de Bilbao. Bielsa's squad is youthful but easy-on-the-eye with their Barcelona-esque passing game and high defensive line. My sole doubt for them would be Bielsa's "anti-rotation" policy as they attempt to compete on three fronts with limited squad depth. However, it's not affected them thus far so it's hard to look beyond the talented Basque outfit. Those looking at the Europa League betting need to remember this.
Atletico Madrid look fresh under Diego Simeone, which is a surprising statement to make. He wasn't notorious for his calming effect during his playing days and Atletico Madrid are not a patient side so the two gelling as well as they have remains a surprise. With poacher Falcao leading the line and Diego sat behind him, it's hard to write off Atletico Madrid.
Schalke 04 compensate for their lack of quality through a great work ethic and that's shown in every UEFA Europa League game that they've featured in this season. Huntelaar is in tremendous goalscoring form and with veteran Raul there supporting him, Schalke 04 have more than enough firepower to damage any side that remains in this tournament so we can't rule out Huub Stevens' side and the online football betting reflects this.
As far as the other potential contenders go, some people might be surprised that I've not listed Valencia CF as one of the more likely sides to emerge victorious in the UEFA Europa League. The reason I haven't is because they tend to baulk under pressure. They're terrific as underdogs but in front of their own fans at the Mestalla, Valencia CF tend to struggle. Unai Emery's side also struggles to provide cover for their instrumental midfielders when absent so it's hard to consider Valencia as favourites for this tournament although their quality is undeniable.
Of course, we can never write off Metalist Kharkiv with their terrific away form in the UEFA Europa League either. They've got some superb South Americans and are ruthlessly efficient tactically. I will stick my head on the chopping block and rule out Hannover 96 (not enough firepower or experience), AZ Alkmaar (not enough depth and a tiring squad), and Sporting Clube de Lisboa (not strong enough defensively).
As a winner of the tournament, though, I cannot possibly look beyond the talented Athletic Club de Bilbao. They play great football with tremendous freedom and belief. Although their defence is dubious at times, especially from set pieces, this side has the firepower and the quality to win the UEFA Europa League.
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