Manchester United vs Athletic Bilbao: Europa League Semi-Final, Second Leg
Manchester United (3-4-2-1): Onana; Lindelof, Maguire, Yoro; Mazraoui, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu; Garnacho, Fernandes; Hojlund. Subs: Bayindir, Heaton, Amass, Fredricson, Kamason, Shaw, Eriksen, Mainoo, Mount, Amad, Mantato.
Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1): Agirrezabala; Gorosabel, Yeray Alvarez, Unai Nunez, Berechiche; Ruiz De Galarreta, Jaureguizar; Alvaro Djalo, Gomez, Berenguer; Sannadi. Subs: Unai Simon, Paredes, Vesga, Guruzeta, Inigo Lekue, De Marcos, Prados, Peio Canales, Adama Boiro, Aingeru Olabarrieta, Alejandro Rego, Iker Varela.
Pre-Match Thoughts
Could they really mess this up?
Looking back at the post-Ferguson years, fans have witnessed a colorful array of disappointments. From that shocking 7-0 loss at Anfield to the various capitulations against Sevilla, each moment seems to haunt us. There’s also the painful 4-0 defeat at MK Dons, the 2018 FA Cup final flop, and the torturous shame of the 2021 Europa League final against, you guessed it, Spurs. It’s a long list—derby defeats, multiple Champions League embarrassments, and eleven consecutive home games without scoring before halftime. Not to mention that time they lost three times to Spurs in a single season while watching Liverpool and Manchester City dominate everything around them.
But could we all at least agree on one thing? If they somehow blow a 3-0 lead at home, that would certainly earn a top spot on that disappointment list. And honestly, that might even feel like a birthday present compared to the endless shame of a European final loss to Spurs. So yes, there’s still a lot to be said about this narrative.
Kick-off is at 8 PM BST.
Manager Insights: Reuben Amorim stressed that they need a better start compared to last week. When asked about Patrick Dolgue’s nervous demeanor, he assured that he knows what his players need to do—otherwise, they’ll be letting down their supporters.
Team Updates
Interestingly, United hasn’t made any changes since the first leg. In contrast, Athletic Bilbao has opted for four alterations. Nai Nunes is stepping in for Vivian, while Gorosabel takes over for De Marcos. Alvaro Djalo and Gomez will replace Inaki and Nico Williams, both injured, yet the regular striker remains sidelined as well.
So, as we gather our thoughts and perhaps even run some quick checks, the stage is set. Let’s hope the night brings more excitement than despair.
