Amorim Cautious of Comeback as Man Utd Takes Charge in Bilbao

Bruno Fernandes netted a brace as Manchester United edged closer to the Europa League final with a dominant away victory over 10-man Athletic Bilbao, winning 3-0 on Thursday night.

Tempers flared in the stands when Athletic’s Daniel Vivian received his marching orders for a foul on Rasmus Hojlund, allowing Fernandes to convert the penalty after Casemiro had surprisingly put United ahead in the semi-final first leg.

Fernandes added a third goal before the break, putting Ruben Amorim’s side firmly in control as they moved within reach of the final, which will take place at Athletic’s San Mames stadium.

The home side had aspirations of clinching their first European trophy on home turf, but United’s composed performance in Spain silenced their supporters, who were left arguing over the officiating decisions.

With their Premier League campaign faltering at 14th place, United’s hopes of securing Champions League football hinge on success in the Europa League, as well as the lucrative £100 million it presents.

Despite their propensity to wilt under pressure this season, the Red Devils—famed for their remarkable comeback against Lyon in the quarter-finals—managed to hold their ground and flourish amid the hostile atmosphere.

Man Utd manager Ruben Amorim has cautioned his squad to be “fully prepared” for the return leg at Old Trafford next week against Athletic Bilbao.

“The result is positive, but we have to put it in perspective,” he told TNT Sports.

“We faced significant challenges early on, and the red card changed the game. A single incident can reshape everything. We had a chance to add another goal. The tie is not over, and they can pull off a similar feat at Old Trafford.”

“They possess a lot of intensity and strength. Manuel Ugarte, with his vast experience, looked a bit tense, while Patrick (Dorgu) also showed nerves. Players like Casemiro, Harry Maguire, and Bruno Fernandes provide immense support.”

“We undoubtedly have the upper hand, thanks to our fans, but we must remain cautious; anything can change in a single match.”

“We must manage our squad carefully ahead of the Brentford match on Sunday. Noussair Mazraoui is exhausted, and Patrick Dorgu is also fatigued.”

With May 1st a public holiday in Spain, Bilbao’s streets were adorned with red-and-white striped jerseys as the locals got into the festive spirit from early morning.

The San Mames stadium erupted with energy as fans welcomed their heroes, all of whom were born or raised in the Basque region, staying true to the club’s century-old tradition.

Alejandro Garnacho’s early chance gave the hosts a moment of hope, but he was ruled offside.

In the initial phases of the match, United focused on weathering the storm from the spirited Basque side and their vocal supporters.

Red card disrupts home side

Alex Berenguer forced a smart save from United goalkeeper Andre Onana, while Inaki Williams narrowly missed with a header.

Victor Lindelof made a crucial block to deny Berenguer following a pass from his brother Nico Williams, who found too much space on the right flank.

Despite Athletic’s early dominance, Casemiro’s goal came as a shock, with United showcasing a rare attacking move led by centre-back Maguire, who surged down the right as Mikel Jaureguizar struggled to keep up.

Maguire delivered a pinpoint cross that Manuel Ugarte flicked on to the back post, where Casemiro nodded in from close range.

What seemed like a fortunate break for United quickly turned into a second goal when Vivian was deemed to have fouled Hojlund while attempting to meet a cross.

As frustration mounted among Athletic supporters, Vivian was dismissed, and Fernandes calmly converted the resultant penalty.

Athletic manager Ernesto Valverde made immediate substitutions to address the situation, but United struck again before half-time.

A clever back-heel from Ugarte sent Fernandes through on goal, and he made no mistake in slotting the ball home.

Noussair Mazraoui nearly added a fourth for United, striking the crossbar from distance just before the interval.

Referee Espen Eskas faced a torrent of criticism from the home fans, who saw their dreams of silverware fading fast.

They voiced their displeasure, waving white items in protest, when Maroan Sannadi went down under pressure from Maguire while pursuing the ball, yet no free-kick was given.

In the second half, United controlled most of the play but failed to score again, despite maintaining pressure on Athletic.

“We felt a bit jittery at the start of the match… but we rode out the storm and were hopeful of an opening,” said Harry Maguire of United to TNT Sports.

“We were clinical in the first half and professional in the second… It’s a fantastic win, but there’s another significant clash next week.”

The return fixture is slated for next Thursday at Old Trafford, leading towards the final on May 21 against either Tottenham or Bodo/Glimt.

“He (Hojlund) goes down at the slightest contact; it’s unfortunate that a penalty was given,” noted Inaki Williams.

“We weren’t at our best, so we can’t offer excuses—we’re three goals down, but we have the ability to make a comeback.”