Manchester United have this competition to save their dreadful season, while Athletic Club have a feeling of destiny around this competition and season. With the 2 favourites for the tournament, the hosts were many people’s pick for going all the way, but after a turn of events which led to the game turning quickly in the favour of the visitors, it’s now looking like United should be heading back to Bilbao later in the month for the final.

The game was filled with a dramatic first half with goals and a game-changing red card. With a few key moments that could have completely shifted the game, the result gives United 1 foot in the final, and while Bilbao possess a lot of talent that could turn the tide back in their favour, it feels quite unlikely from this point.

As always, if you have any thoughts on Manchester United this season or in this specific game, get in touch with us by leaving a comment, following us on Bluesky (@NextGoalWinner) or Instagram (@NextGoalWin) and check out our YouTube channel (@NextGoalWinner).

Teams

Amorim had been trying to wrap up most of his senior squad in cotton wool in the build up, and seeing several key players now picking up fitness has been a huge boost to help them through the remainder of this tournament. Starting with Lindelof in the back line was a possible surprise, but De Ligt’s recent injury meant the right-sided centre back spot was needing cover. The most positive for Amorim is that he could rotate early and get minutes in for the possible starters in next week’s second leg. Shaw, Mainoo, Mount, De Ligt and Amad could all put a case in for starting the second leg and their cameos could help give them the boost.

For Athletic Club, the red card completely shifted their approach, as changes were made almost instantly as the game had gotten away from them, nullifying the potential attacking threat. They were also without a key player in Sancet who will also be missing the 2nd leg in a huge disappointment for the hosts.

Athletic Bilbao: Agirrezabala, Berchiche, Alvarez, Vivian, De Marcos (Paredes 42′), Jauregizar, De Galarreta (Prados 46′), Williams (Gomez 79′), Berenguer (Gorosabel 42′), Williams (Djalo 87′), Sannadi

Subs: Simon, Boiro, Lekue, Nunez, Vesga, Canales, Guruzeta

Manchester United: Onana, Yoro, Maguire (De Ligt 65′), Lindelof, Dorgu (Amad 84′), Casemiro, Ugarte (Mount 65′), Mazraoui (Shaw 74′), Fernandes, Garnacho (Mainoo 84′), Hojlund

Subs: Bayindir, Heaton, Amass, Kamason, Fredricson, Eriksen, Mantato

Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Manchester United

Manchester United took a significant step toward the Europa League final with a commanding 3–0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the semi-final first leg at San Mamés on Thursday. Goals from Casemiro and a brace by Bruno Fernandes, all within a 15-minute span in the first half, dismantled the hosts’ ambitions and left the Basque side facing a daunting task ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford.

The match began with Athletic Bilbao pressing aggressively, aiming to capitalize on their home advantage. However, United weathered the early storm and struck first in the 30th minute when Casemiro headed in a precise cross from Harry Maguire. The situation worsened for Athletic shortly after as defender Dani Vivian was sent off for pulling back Rasmus Højlund in the penalty area, a decision upheld after a VAR review. Bruno Fernandes calmly converted the ensuing penalty in the 37th minute, doubling United’s lead.

United continued to exploit their numerical advantage, and just before halftime, Fernandes added his second goal, finishing off a well-orchestrated move to make it 3–0. The Portuguese midfielder’s performance not only secured the win but also set a new club record for the most goals scored by a Manchester United player in a single Europa League season, bringing his tally to seven.

In the second half, United managed the game effectively, maintaining possession and limiting Athletic’s opportunities. Despite the hosts’ efforts to mount a comeback, they were unable to break through United’s organized defence. The result leaves Manchester United in a strong position to advance to the final, which will be held at San Mamés on May 21. Athletic Bilbao now faces the formidable challenge of overturning a three-goal deficit at Old Trafford.

Talking Points

Manchester United took a commanding step towards the Europa League final with the 3–0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the semi-final first leg at San Mamés. Goals from Casemiro and a brace by Bruno Fernandes, all within a 15-minute span in the first half, dismantled the hosts’ ambitions and left the Basque side facing a daunting task ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford. United’s clinical performance and numerical advantage following Dani Vivian’s red card have put them in a strong position to progress.

A standout moment came when Harry Maguire, often scrutinized for his defensive performances, showcased his attacking prowess. The centre-back ventured down the right flank, displaying unexpected agility and footwork to beat his marker. He then delivered a precise cross into the box, which Manuel Ugarte deftly flicked on for Casemiro to head home the opening goal. This assist not only silenced critics but also highlighted Maguire’s versatility and vision on the field.

Under manager Rúben Amorim, United demonstrated a composed and disciplined approach throughout the match. Even after gaining a significant lead and facing a ten-man Athletic side, the team maintained their structure, controlled possession, and avoided unnecessary risks. This maturity in gameplay contrasts with some of their earlier European outings and suggests a team growing in confidence and cohesion as they edge closer to continental silverware.