The Europa League appears to grow more competitive with every passing season, and that’s how Real Sociedad and Real Betis will feel as Spain’s representatives this season.
Manchester United, Roma, PSV, Arsenal, and Monaco being included in the group stage adds some prestige to Europe’s secondary club competition this term, with so many teams hoping to make it to the final in Budapest on May 31, 2023.
Neither La Real nor Betis found themselves in Pot 1 of the draw, meaning they were always likely to face a traditional powerhouse.
For the Andalusian side, they’ll have to overcome Jose Mourinho and Roma in Group C, as well as meeting Ludogorets and HJK Helsinki.
Real Sociedad have been drawn into Group E. They’ll face Manchester United – with or without Cristiano Ronaldo – and will have to better Sheriff Tiraspol and Omonia Nicosia as well.
Much like the Champions League, the Europa League has eight groups of four teams and the top two will progress.
Group winners will go straight into the Round of 16, whereas those who finish second will progress to a Round of 32 and face third-placed finishers from the Champions League group stage.
