‘Leipzig clash is a test of character’: Manchester United need not take ‘foolish risks’ in Champions League decider, says Solskjaer


The Norwegian is hoping his players will make “good decisions” as the Red Devils look to book a place in the round of 16.

Manchester United need not take “silly risks” against RB Leipzig, according to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who says the Champions League decider is a “test of character”.

United top Group H with nine points after five games, having recorded comfortable home wins over Leipzig and Istanbul Basaksehir, as well as an impressive win over Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes.

However, Solskjaer’s men still have work to do after a 2-1 loss in Istanbul on matchday three and a 3-1 setback against PSG last week, with a trip to Red Bull Arena next Tuesday for the night.

The Red Devils must avoid defeat against Leipzig to book a place in the round of 16, with PSG now favorites to win the group heading into their final match against Istanbul in France.

United beat last year’s semi-finalists 5-0 at Old Trafford, and Solskjaer believes another win over Julian Nagelsmann’s side would be proof of how much his team has progressed over the past year.

When asked if he was enjoying the prospect of a life and death match in Germany, the Norwegian coach said MUTV : “Definitely. That is what the Champions League should be, and that is what it is about. It is a test of character, a test of how far we’ve come.

“Football is about performing when it matters and it is one of those tests. We got to the last game. We did very well to get there and of course we need a point.

“We want to go there and put our authority in the game and hopefully win.”

Solskjaer insists United will seek all three points against Leipzig even though they only need one, but he warned his players not to let complacency leak out.

It’s in your mind, of course it is. We know we don’t have to take foolish risks. You just have to make good decisions, “he said.

“The mindset has to be to go out there and try to win the game, in a way that’s sensible. That’s what we’re going to do.”

The Red Devils boss added on the challenge Leipzig will pose: “They have good players, a good team and the way they have risen through the ranks has been impressive.

“It’s about Man Utd and how we perform. When we’re in our prime, I think either side will fight us.”

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