Yoro sets Man Utd Champions League task

Leny Yoro says a club like Manchester United have to play in the Champions League.

United have not been in Europe's elite club competition since Yoro joined them from Lille in 2024. They have not made it past the last 16 since 2019.

But the 3-1 win against fourth-placed Aston Villa at Old Trafford consolidated them in third position, with eight games remaining.

While they still have Chelsea and Liverpool to face, the absence of European distractions should be a benefit. There are over three weeks from Friday's trip to Bournemouth to their next game against Leeds, at Old Trafford on 13 April.

Head coach Michael Carrick is not taking anything for granted.

But Yoro knows the prize is in sight.

"Every player wants to play Champions League, especially when you play for United," he said.

"This club has to play the Champions League. Hopefully we're going to get it next season.

"We know every game is important, but this one was especially so because they [Villa] are right behind us. We are really happy with the result."

The Villa win featured another crucial contribution from veteran midfielder Casemiro.

The Brazil skipper opened the scoring with a near-post header and was a calming influence in the latter stages after Matheus Cunha had put the hosts back in front.

Casemiro has already confirmed he will leave Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Nevertheless, United's fans chanted "one more year" to the 34-year-old at the final whistle.

That wish is unlikely to be granted, which Yoro thinks is a shame.

"Everyone wanted him to stay," he said. "He's a really important player for us and showed it again.

"He has won everything. He has experience no-one else in the team has."