Manchester United vs Athletic Bilbao: Europa League Semi-Final Second Leg Preview
First Leg Recap
In the first leg, Manchester United delivered a dominant performance, securing a 3-0 victory at the San Mamés Stadium. Bruno Fernandes scored twice, and Casemiro added another, putting United in a strong position heading into the second leg at Old Trafford. The result was a significant boost for United, who have faced challenges in the Premier League this season.
Team News and Lineups
Manchester United
United manager Ruben Amorim is expected to field a strong lineup despite recent domestic setbacks. Key players such as Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and Rasmus Højlund are likely to start. However, the team will be without defender Matthijs de Ligt due to injury. The predicted lineup is as follows:
- Goalkeeper: André Onana
- Defenders: Victor Lindelöf, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro
- Midfielders: Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, Noussair Mazraoui
- Forwards: Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, Rasmus Højlund
Athletic Bilbao
Athletic Club face significant challenges with several key players unavailable. Top scorer Oihan Sancet, wingers Nico and Iñaki Williams, and defender Dani Vivian are all sidelined due to injury or suspension. Despite these setbacks, manager Ernesto Valverde will rely on his squad’s depth and resilience. The expected lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Julen Agirrezabala
- Defenders: Oscar de Marcos, Aitor Paredes, Yeray Álvarez, Yuri Berchiche
- Midfielders: Íñigo Ruiz de Galarreta, Mikel Jauregizar
- Forwards: Álvaro Djalo, Unai Gómez, Alex Berenguer, Maroan Sannadi
Key Players to Watch
Manchester United
Bruno Fernandes has been instrumental in United’s European campaign, contributing significantly to the team’s success. His leadership and creativity in midfield will be crucial in breaking down Athletic’s defense. Additionally, Rasmus Højlund’s pace and finishing ability make him a constant threat on the counter-attack.
Athletic Bilbao
With several key players unavailable, Athletic Club will look to their remaining squad members to step up. Defender Yeray Álvarez’s experience will be vital in organizing the defense, while midfielder Mikel Jauregizar’s vision and passing range could provide the necessary link between defense and attack.
Tactical Analysis
Manchester United are likely to adopt an attacking approach, leveraging their three-goal advantage to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game. Ruben Amorim may opt for a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho supporting Rasmus Højlund in attack. The midfield duo of Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte will be tasked with breaking up Athletic’s attacks and initiating offensive transitions.
Athletic Club, on the other hand, will need to be more adventurous, aiming to score early to reduce the deficit. Ernesto Valverde may employ a 4-4-2 formation, with Maroan Sannadi partnering Alex Berenguer in attack. The midfielders will need to provide support to the forwards while also tracking back to prevent United’s counter-attacks.
Match Prediction
While Athletic Club’s task is formidable, football is unpredictable, and they will be determined to fight until the final whistle. However, Manchester United’s depth and quality, combined with their strong home form in European competitions, make them the favorites to progress to the final. A 2-1 victory for United in the second leg would see them advance with a 5-1 aggregate score.
How to Watch
The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports in the UK, with coverage starting at 7:00 PM BST. International viewers can check local listings for broadcast information. For real-time updates and commentary, fans can follow the official UEFA Europa League website or Like Earth.
