Lyon have 'better attack' then Man Utd who face very tough clash, admits ex-Red

Former Manchester United star Rafael da Silva has delivered a brutal reality check ahead of their Europa League quarter-final first leg against Lyon warning that the French side’s attacking firepower could expose the Red’s shaky season.

The ex-right-back, who spent seven years at Old Trafford and now plays for Botafogo, didn’t hold back, claiming Lyon’s forward line outshines United’s misfiring attack as Ruben Amorim’s men chase their last shot at silverware.

United head into the tie on the back of a goalless draw against Manchester City in the Premier League and a 4-1 defeat away to Newcastle. While in between they drew 2-2 away in Lyon.

With just 37 goals in 31 league games this season, Amorim’s 3-4-3 system has struggled to click, and Rafael—still a fan favorite for his tenacity—believes Lyon’s dynamic front three could punish United’s fragility.

“Lyon has a better attack, no question,” Rafael told Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte. “United are a big club, my club, but right now, they’re not scoring.

Lyon have players like [Alexandre] Lacazette, who’s lethal, and wingers who can hurt you. United’s defence will need to be perfect, because Lyon will create chances. It’s going to be tough.”

Lyon, sitting second in Ligue 1, have been a revelation this season, with Lacazette leading the charge alongside the likes of Saïd Benrahma and Ernest Nuamah.

Their 54 goals in 28 league matches dwarf United’s output, and Rafael, who faced Lyon during his time in France with Lyon’s rivals, knows their threat firsthand. “They play fast, direct football,” he added. “If United sit back like they did against City, they’ll get picked apart.”

The warning comes at a pivotal moment for United, who are out of the Premier League title race and banking on Europa League glory to salvage a trophyless campaign.

Amorim, under pressure to prove his worth since taking over in November 2024, has leaned on youngsters like Alejandro Garnacho and Ayden Heaven but faces injury woes.

Rafael, while critical, offered a sliver of hope: “Amorim’s still building, and United have quality. But they need to show fight—Lyon won’t roll over.”

Fans on X have been rattled by Rafael’s comments, with one posting, “Rafa’s right—our attack’s been dire. Lacazette will eat us alive if we’re not careful.”

Another countered, “United always step up in Europe. Rafa’s just stirring the pot.” Either way, his words have set the stage for a nervy encounter at Old Trafford, where United must find their spark to avoid an upset and keep their European dreams alive.