Having finished third in the inaugural League Phase, it meant United would be on the opposite side of the draw to fellow Premier League side Tottenham, who finished fourth.
That means the two clubs can not meet any earlier than the final, should both progress as far.
Should they get past Sociedad in the round-of-16 stage, then United will face either Lyon or FCSB n the quarter-finals.
Navigate that last-eight tie and one of Rangers, Fenerbahce, Roma ro Athletic Bilbao lie in wait in the semi-finals.
Then that sets up a possible date with Spurs in the final on May 21 in Bilbao.
Other significant threats in the competition are Athletic Bilbao, and not just because the final is being held at their home ground, and Italian side Lazio.
Manchester United route to Europa League final
Round of 16: Real Sociedad
Quarter-final: FCSB or Lyon
Semi-final: Athletic Bilbao
