Manchester United will take a huge three-goal advantage back to Old Trafford for the second leg of their Europa League semi-final.
The entire season hinges on Manchester United winning the Europa League, and Ruben Amorim’s side rose to the occasion in the first leg against Athletic Club.
Amorim rested Casemiro for the clash by bringing him off early in the Premier League, and the Brazilian was excellent in Bilbao, opening the scoring in the first half.
A double from club captain Bruno Fernandes gave United a dominant lead by half-time, and a red card to Dani Vivian meant the Red Devils could dictate play after the break.
United are now 90 minutes away from reaching the Europa League final.
Ruben Amorim relied on experience
In what was undeniably Manchester United’s biggest game of the season, Amorim looked to his most experienced players.
Harry Maguire, Casemiro and Victor Lindelof were all thrown in from the start and all three played a big role in the dominant performance.
Amorim is showing faith in United’s youth in the Premier League, but on Europe’s big stage he turns to his leaders. They answered the call brilliantly in Bilbao.
Man United avoided red card repeat mistake
In the quarter-finals, Corentin Tolisso was sent off for Lyon but instead of swinging momentum in United’s favour it actually resulted in the French outfit building a two-goal advantage.
In Bilbao, United once again found themselves a man-up after Dani Vivian was sent off for denying Rasmus Hojlund a goalscoring opportunity.
Amorim will be pleased that his side learned from their mistakes against Lyon and this time were able to press forward with their advantage, even if it didn’t add to the lead.
Ruben Amorim’s game plan was perfect
In the build-up to the clash, Amorim planned for Athletic Club’s style of play by giving his key players minutes against Bournemouth – a side he believes plays very similarly.
Amorim pointed out that both sides defend similarly, while they both rely on pacey and direct wingers in attack. The game plan in Spain was flawless and everything went to plan.
United were warned about Nico Williams but Amorim set up his side perfectly to keep the Spain international quiet.
Harry Maguire is earning a new contract at Man United
Earlier this season, United triggered Maguire’s one-year contract extension, meaning his deal is now valid until 2026.
Amorim was desperate to keep hold of Maguire, and the 32-year-old has proven to be United’s saviour on multiple occasions.
Against Lyon, it was Maguire who scored the dramatic winner at Old Trafford. Now in the semi-finals, Maguire provided a pin-point cross that resulted in Casemiro’s opener.
If anyone is deserving of a new deal, it’s Maguire.
Still work to be done at Old Trafford
When United got complacent against Lyon, they ended up losing control and nearly threw away the entire season.
Despite taking a three-goal lead back to Old Trafford next week, Amorim will be eager to keep his players focused on the target.
United’s defence has hardly been flawless this season so focus and concentration will be needed next week to make sure United get over the line.
Only then can focus switch to the final in Bilbao on May 21st.
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