Manchester United put on a commanding performance in the second leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final, defeating Athletic Club 4-1 at Old Trafford on May 8, 2025. This victory secured a 7-1 aggregate win, propelling the Red Devils into the final where they will face Tottenham Hotspur in Wroclaw on May 21.
After a solid first leg that saw United take a 3-0 lead in Bilbao, the team carried that momentum into the return fixture. Mason Mount, Casemiro, and Rasmus Hojlund scored in the second half, showcasing United's attacking prowess. The defeat was particularly harsh for Athletic Club, who were missing key players due to injuries and suspensions.
Inaki and Nico Williams, two of Athletic's most impactful forwards, were sidelined for this crucial encounter. Nico was dealing with a groin injury that had kept him out of the previous match against Real Sociedad, while Inaki sustained a hamstring injury that forced him off in that same game. Additionally, Athletic's top scorer Oihan Sancet was also absent due to injury, and defender Dani Vivian was suspended after receiving a red card in the first leg.
Despite these setbacks, Athletic Club managed to field a competitive lineup, with Oscar de Marcos and Unai Gomez returning to bolster their ranks. However, the absence of their star players proved to be a significant disadvantage against a strong Manchester United side that has remained unbeaten in the Europa League this season.
The first half of the match saw United dominate possession, but it was not until the second half that they began to find the back of the net. Casemiro opened the scoring with a well-placed header, capitalizing on a cross from Harry Maguire. Following that, Mason Mount doubled the lead, showcasing his skill and vision with a precise finish.
Bruno Fernandes, who had already made headlines with his brace in the first leg, continued to lead by example. His leadership on the pitch was evident as he orchestrated plays and provided key assists. Fernandes had previously scored just before halftime in the first leg, putting United firmly in control of the tie.
The night was a celebration for United fans, who filled Old Trafford to its 74,197 capacity, creating an electric atmosphere. The club's supporters were hopeful of witnessing their team secure a spot in the final, especially after experiencing disappointment in both the league and domestic cup competitions earlier in the season.
As the match progressed, Athletic Club struggled to find their rhythm. They had entered the game with a daunting task, needing to overcome a three-goal deficit against a team that had shown resilience and determination throughout the tournament. Their efforts were hampered by the absence of their key attacking threats, which severely limited their offensive capabilities.
Despite the odds, Athletic Club had reached the semi-finals after an impressive run in the tournament. They finished second in their group, boasting six wins, one draw, and one defeat. Their path included a notable victory over Roma in the round of 16 and a solid win against Rangers in the quarter-finals. However, the semi-final against Manchester United proved to be a bridge too far.
For Manchester United, the victory was a testament to their strength and depth. Manager Ruben Amorim had made several changes to the squad following their league loss to Brentford, but the team looked sharp and ready for the challenge. With Matthijs de Ligt and Diogo Dalot sidelined due to injury, Amorim had to rely on a mix of seasoned players and emerging talent.
The victory sets the stage for an all-English final against Tottenham Hotspur, who defeated Bodo/Glimt 5-1 on aggregate in their semi-final clash. The final will be held in Wroclaw, and both teams will be eager to claim European glory.
As the dust settles from this semi-final showdown, Manchester United fans can take pride in their team's performance. With their eyes set on the Europa League trophy, the Red Devils are determined to bring home silverware and end the season on a high note. The anticipation now builds as they prepare to face Tottenham, a match that promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of England's top clubs.
The matchup between United and Tottenham will not only be a battle for the trophy but also a showcase of talent and tactical prowess. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the final, hoping for a memorable clash that will add another chapter to the storied history of English football.
In conclusion, Manchester United's emphatic victory over Athletic Club has solidified their status as contenders for European glory. With the final on the horizon, the team is focused and ready to seize the opportunity to lift the Europa League trophy.
