Levski Sofia vs Red Bull Salzburg - UEFA Europa League

All eyes turn to the home ground on September 17, 2026 as Levski Sofia welcome Red Bull Salzburg in a UEFA Europa League encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. Chelsea could do with a morale-boosting win when they face AC Milan in Jakarta.

In the UEFA Europa League table, Levski Sofia currently occupy 19th and Red Bull Salzburg sit 30th, and the context adds genuine weight to what is already an intriguing fixture. It has been a torrid run for the hosts, - in their last five and a season win rate of just 0% that has the alarm bells ringing. It has been a wretched run on the road for the visitors, D in their last five and a win rate of 0% that explains their lowly standing. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — Levski Sofia average 0 per game to Red Bull Salzburg's 0, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. Tuchel's subs, Rodri's rank, Messi's masterclass - World Cup highs & lows.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Levski Sofia favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Red Bull Salzburg are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. Every word from Enzo Maresca's press conference including Man City team news and Manchester derby admission.

With V. Pavlidis leading the league's scoring charts at 5 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. In his latest Sky Sports column, Paul Merson says he would be worried by Roberto De Zerbi's post-match comments criticising Spurs' forward players and medical staff.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Given the balance of the numbers, Levski Sofia should have enough to edge it — a 2-1 victory looks the most likely outcome. Whatever the outcome, the UEFA Europa League fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. It is likely City adopt a more proactive pressing system higher up the pitch in order to exert territorial control on opponents.