"Real Sociedad favorites? I don't agree, United is the big favorite to win the Europa League for me." The txuriurdin coach does not agree with those who say that his Real Sociedad has the best chance of getting through the tie and asks for respect for their rivals.

The Orio native has warned of United's potential, having heard that they're doing poorly and Real are the favorites.

"I don't agree at all with those who say they're in a bad moment. They're not having good results in the League, but they have fewer points than they deserve per game, and they haven't lost in Europe. We're facing one of the favorites to win the Europa League, for me they're the big favorite."

Imanol has clarified that he thinks about winning, but knowing the difficulty. “We are going out to win, but being aware of the opponent we have in front of us. We have to be aware of the potential they have, it is my opinion based on what I have seen, not based on their history.We're going out to win, but we can do many things well and we may not be able to achieve it, due to their high level."

He also give the Sociedad fans a message. "We need them, but they should be aware of the rival we have in front of us, you cannot disrespect any rival, much less one like this one. I hope we can enjoy the same atmosphere as on Real Madrid's day and be able to compete like we did on that day."