Manchester United stand on the cusp of reaching the Europa League final after a commanding 3-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of their semi-final clash. Despite a turbulent domestic season, the Red Devils are now just one step away from a potential all-English final against Tottenham Hotspur.
Manager Ruben Amorim, who made eight changes to his lineup in their recent Premier League defeat to Brentford, has made it clear where his priorities lie. “Thursday is the most important game,” the Portuguese boss stated, emphasizing the significance of progressing in the Europa League.
United’s journey to this stage has been a beacon of hope in an otherwise dismal Premier League campaign, which has seen them suffer a club-record 16 league losses � their highest in 35 years. Currently languishing in 15th place, their worst since 1974, the Europa League offers a crucial pathway to redemption and a coveted Champions League spot for the 2025/26 season.
Amorim acknowledged the challenge of balancing domestic struggles with European ambitions, admitting, “We know that, but we need to win, and we need to fight to win this competition… to go to the Champions League.”
A key figure in United’s Europa League success has been captain Bruno Fernandes. His two goals in the first leg against Athletic Bilbao, who had defender Dani Vivian sent off, further cemented his remarkable record in the competition. Fernandes boasts the most goal involvements in the Europa League knockout stages since its rebranding in 2009, with 19 goals and 12 assists in 32 appearances.
Tottenham Hotspur are also on the verge of reaching the final after securing a 3-1 first-leg victory against Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt. Should both English clubs progress, it would mark the sixth all-English final in either the Champions League or Europa League.
Despite their own Premier League struggles, sitting just below United with 19 defeats, Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has the opportunity to secure the club’s first silverware since 2008, fulfilling his track record of winning trophies in his second season.
Victory in the Europa League for either Manchester United or Tottenham would have significant implications for English football, potentially resulting in six Premier League teams competing in the following season’s Champions League.
