Manchester United’s convincing display at San Mames earned them a three-goal advantage going into their Europa League semi-final second leg against Athletic Club.
Ruben Amorim was happy on Thursday night as Manchester United beat Athletic Club 3-0, thanks to goals from Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes (x2).
United struggled for the first 20 minutes of the match, but Casemiro’s opener hurt the hosts, and they were reduced to 10 men minutes later, before Fernandes converted his spot kick.
The Portuguese Magnifico increased United’s lead over Athletic Club before the break as Manuel Ugarte recorded his second assist of the game.
This means United’s hopes of winning the Europa League are still alive, and so is the objective of qualifying for the Champions League.
Now, all eyes are on the second leg at Old Trafford next Thursday. The winner will face either Tottenham or Bodo/Glimt in the final.
Casemiro shares invaluable advice ahead of Athletic Club clash
After winning the Champions League five times at Real Madrid, Casemiro knows what it takes to succeed in Europe more than anyone else in the United first-team dressing room.
The Brazilian scored his first goal in the Europa League last night as he inspired his team to victory with a headed goal on the half-hour mark.
Casemiro’s form has improved in recent times under Amorim, with United’s head coach finding a role in his team to get the best out of the 33-year-old midfielder.
The veteran took to Instagram after United’s win over Athletic Club to share some invaluable advice for his teammates.
Casemiro shared a picture of his goal celebration at San Mames, along with the caption: “Great win tonight but there is still the second leg. Maximum respect. This is Europe!”
It was initially thought that Casemiro would be overlooked by Amorim, but the Brazil international has yet again become one of United’s most influential players.
Bruno Fernandes responds to Casemiro
United captain Bruno Fernandes was one of the first to respond to Casemiro’s post-match update on Instagram.
Fernandes’ two goals were crucial in giving United the edge over Athletic Club for the second leg.
The 30-year-old shared a one-word reply to Casemiro, writing: “Impressive”
The Portugal international is another example of a player who is incredibly influential at United.
It remains to be seen if Casemiro and Fernandes will be rested when United take on Brentford on Sunday.
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