Athletic Bilbao are dreaming of a fairytale ending – reaching the Europa League final, held at their own San Mames stadium. But first, they have one final obstacle to clear: a two-legged semi-final against Manchester United, starting Thursday night in Bilbao.
For United, this match offers more than just a shot at silverware – it could be their lifeline. After a disappointing domestic campaign, winning the Europa League may be their only route into next season’s Champions League.
They certainly didn’t have it easy in the quarter-finals. After drawing 2-2 away to Lyon, United went ahead 4-2 at Old Trafford, only to fall apart as Lyon – down to 10 men – scored four straight goals. Suddenly, United were on the brink of elimination. But in a stunning six-minute blitz at the end of extra time, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Harry Maguire found the net to seal a dramatic 7-6 aggregate win.
That comeback was the latest chapter in what’s been an impressive European campaign for the Red Devils. They cruised through the league phase, brushed aside Real Sociedad in the last 16, and now stand unbeaten in the competition, with 28 goals scored so far. Under Ruben Amorim, their form in Europe has been in stark contrast to their Premier League struggles.
However, history isn’t on United’s side against Athletic. The Basque club has won three of their four previous meetings, including a memorable double win back in 2012 under Marcelo Bielsa.
For Athletic, this semi-final is a rare and precious opportunity. It’s only their third ever at this level in Europe, and they’ll be desperate to go one step further than in 1977 and 2012, when they finished runners-up. Having already lifted the Copa del Rey last year, another trophy – this time on home turf – would be historic.
They topped United by a single point in the league phase, and since then, have knocked out Roma and Rangers. Their home form has been especially strong: six wins from six at San Mames in this competition, with 14 goals scored and just two conceded.
Domestically, things are going well too. They're in the hunt for a top-four finish in La Liga and enjoyed a weekend off while Barcelona and Real Madrid contested the Spanish cup final – extra rest that could prove valuable this week.
With a Basque derby against Real Sociedad looming between the two legs, this could be a defining week in Athletic’s season. And with the Europa League final just a few weeks away – in their own stadium – the stakes couldn’t be higher.
INJURIES & SUSPENSIONS
Manchester United have welcomed Amad Diallo and Matthijs de Ligt back into the squad this week, but neither is expected to start Thursday’s semi-final first leg. Meanwhile, injuries continue to pile up for Ruben Amorim’s side. Toby Collyer and Ayden Heaven remain unavailable, and both Diogo Dalot (calf) and Joshua Zirkzee (hamstring) have picked up knocks that could rule them out for the rest of the season. Lisandro Martinez is also still out with a long-term issue.
With limited options, captain Bruno Fernandes remains central to United’s plans. The Portuguese playmaker has been a standout performer in this competition, with a record-setting 29 goal contributions in 31 Europa League knockout matches. He also has a strong semi-final track record – three goals and three assists in just three appearances at this stage.
For Athletic Bilbao, Nico Williams continues to shine at San Mames. He’s contributed to at least one goal in all six home games in the Europa League this season, tallying five goals and two assists. After being rested last weekend, he’s expected to start alongside his brother Inaki on Thursday night.
Oihan Sancet, however, is ruled out with a thigh injury – a big blow considering his 18 goals from midfield this season. Up front, Gorka Guruzeta and Maroan Sannadi will likely compete for the third attacking spot.
Also worth noting: veteran full-back Oscar De Marcos, who plans to retire at the end of the season, is the only player left from the clubs’ last encounter in 2012. He scored in both legs of that tie, but at 36, he’s no longer a guaranteed starter.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Athletic Bilbao possible starting lineup:
Simon; Gorosabel, Vivian, Alvarez, Berchiche; Ruiz de Galarreta, Jauregizar; I. Williams, Berenguer, N. Williams; Guruzeta
Manchester United possible starting lineup:
Onana; Yoro, Maguire, Shaw; Mazraoui, Ugarte, Casemiro, Dorgu; Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund
EXPERT PREDICTION
Athletic Bilbao 1-1 Manchester United
