Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he plans to strengthen his squad ahead of next season following a 2-1 defeat to Sevilla in the Europa League semi-finals in Cologne on Sunday.
After falling twice in the semi-finals of cup competitions this season, United were looking to do better by reaching the Europa League final on Friday.
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And they looked to be on course to do just that after Bruno Fernandes converted their 22nd penalty of the season in the ninth minute at RheinEnergieStadion.
However, goals from Spanish winger Suso and former Newcastle United striker Luuk de Jong ensured five-time Europa League winners Sevilla will face Inter Milan as Shakhtar Donetsk in the final, while ensuring United finish the season trophies.
“I can not say when or when transfers will be made, but we will look into it,” Solskjaer said. “It simply came to our notice then [until the start of the new season]. We just have to be 100% sure when we do these deals.
“The players worked so hard, showed the right mentality, but we have to strengthen the squad deep, of course. It will be a long season.”
Missed chances cost United against Sevilla, whose goalkeeper Bono was in inspired form. During the quarter-finals of United against FC Copenhagen and their semi-final on Sunday, they had 46 shots, but managed just two goals – both penalties.
“The goalkeeper had a fantastic game,” added Solskjaer. “Obviously it’s disappointing that we are not scoring. We know we have players who have the quality to score, but that’s the game.
“If you do not take your chances, it will be difficult.”
Sevilla have reached their sixth UEFA Cup / Europa League final – at least twice as much as any other side in the history of the league – with the victory over United taking them to 20 matches unbeaten in all leagues.
“This is the best Manchester United of recent years and the form team in England, so it’s normal we had to suffer,” said Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui.
“It was a team effort. If you beat a team like United in a semi-final, you have to do it as a unit. We did that last night. I’m really proud of my team.
“We are very excited for the final, but it will be the toughest match and we have to prepare.”
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