Manchester United made a significant move in Champions League history during their Wednesday fixture by altering their kit choice. In their crucial European showdown against Galatasaray in Turkey, the Red Devils opted for their third strip with a slight adjustment. Erik ten Hag’s team will sport white shirts paired with red shorts and white socks, marking the first instance in 66 years that Manchester United has utilized red shorts.

The decision to wear their third strip stems from the need to avoid a clash with Galatasaray’s renowned red and yellow shirts, as both teams typically wear white shorts. This necessitated the alteration in United’s kit configuration. Earlier in the day, fans caught a glimpse of this modified kit during the UEFA Youth League Under-19s match.

Despite the imperative for a victory, Manchester United faces a challenging record against Turkish clubs. The Red Devils have suffered three defeats in their last four encounters with Turkish sides, with their lone victory occurring against İstanbul Basaksehir at Old Trafford back in November 2020.

Starting the game in third position within the group, Manchester United must secure a win to sustain their chances of advancing. Group leaders Bayern Munich have already secured their spot in the last 16 and are set to face FC Copenhagen in the concurrent fixture. A triumph for Galatasaray could lead to an untimely exit for United from Europe’s top-tier club competition.

The pitch used for Galatasaray vs. Man Utd in the UEFA Youth League earlier today. ☔️ pic.twitter.com/drGEPkRKML

— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) November 29, 2023

Manchester United performance and stats

Manchester United is currently 4th in the Champions League with 3 points.

In the last 4 games, it has won once and lost 3 times. In its last match, Manchester United lost 4-3 against FC Copenhagen.​​

It has a negative goal difference after scoring 9 goals and conceding 11.​