Manchester United takes on Roma in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final tomorrow, and they will not have the full attention of the English public.
The Red Devils are looking to put an end to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's final four voodoo by reaching his first final as boss.
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If Arsenal defeats Villarreal, led by Arsenal's former manager Unai Emery, it could be an all-English European final.
However, Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger believes United will lose to their Serie A opponents.
Rudiger has been a revelation for the Blues since Thomas Tuchel's arrival, and he set up Christian Pulisic's goal in last night's 1-1 Champions League semi-final draw away to Real Madrid.
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After the game, he was asked about the forthcoming Europa League tie, and he predicted that his former team Roma, whom he played for during the 2016/17 season, would advance.
"I used to play for Roma, and I wish them all the best," he said. "I'm hoping they beat United and advance to the final."
United will face a difficult challenge against Roma, particularly given the Italian club's recent comments about Solskjaer.
Last week, the Norwegian said he "didn't know them" and "hadn't seen them play."
Roma supporters were outraged, and they put up posters outside their team's training
center, repeating Solskjaer's words and adding, "Make sure he remembers us."
When asked about his remarks, Solskjaer backed down earlier today.
Of course, I'd seen them, but I hadn't thoroughly examined or analyzed them "He elaborated.
"It's an amazing club with a wonderful tradition. I have two prized possessions back home: a (Francesco) Totti shirt and a (Daniele) De Rossi shirt that I traded with them, all of which are signed. So I know about the past and the consistency.
We followed them because Chris (Smalling) was there last season. We've studied them thoroughly since we drew them, and we're excited for them.
"It was not supposed to be disrespectful, and I believe everyone understands that. I have a lot of admiration for them."
Since Jose Mourinho claimed the Europa League title in 2017, United has not won a trophy.
"Of course, lifting a cup for this club as a player would be a dream come true," Solskjaer said.
"That's why we're building." We've come a long way, and we're making progress, but taking the next step is fraught with ifs and buts and this and that. You're still bringing it up.
"However, for this team and myself, our goal this season is to end with a trophy and be able to celebrate." I understand how significant it can be for a community going forward."
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