United draw Benfica, Basel, and CSKA Moscow in Champions League group stage

Manchester United are back in the big time! After a brief absence, the Red Devils are back in UEFA Champions League competition, and managed to secure a very manageable-looking group stage draw. United will be facing off against SL Benfica, FC Basel, and CSKA Moscow in this season’s opening rounds in Europe.

On paper, there’s no reason why United shouldn’t finish at the top of that group - and promptly be drawn against a tournament favorite in the next round, because you can never have all the luck. For Nemanja Matić and Victor Lindelöf, they get a reunion with their old club in Benfica. For José Mourinho, he gets something to complain about with a long away trip to Moscow. And for this writer, there is an excuse to post this brilliant Ruud van Nistelrooy goal against FC Basel.

What do you think, readers? Is this as close to an ideal draw as could be expected? Any trips or match-ups to which you are particularly looking forward? Let us know in the comments.