.png?trim=0,0,0,0&width=1200&height=800&crop=1200:800 "Can Manchester United make it to the Europa League final in Bilbao? Cast your vote in our match predictor poll – UK Times")
Manchester United return to Old Trafford on Thursday night knowing they are on the brink of booking a place in the Europa League final — and edging closer to salvaging a turbulent season with silverware.
Ruben Amorim’s side carry a commanding 3-0 lead into the second leg against Athletic Bilbao, having stunned the Basques with a ruthless first-leg display at San Mamés that featured goals from Fernandes and Casimiro.
United’s flawless European run stands in sharp contrast to their dismal domestic form, with Amorim wary of his side’s unpredictability despite a commanding lead.
Bilbao, meanwhile, arrive in Manchester depleted and needing a miracle. Key attackers Nico and Iñaki Williams, as well as top scorer Oihan Sancet, are all sidelined through injury, while standout defender Dani Vivian is suspended after last week’s red card.
They face long odds — no team has ever overturned a three-goal first-leg deficit in this competition. Yet Amorim remains cautious, admitting: “Sometimes we’re one team, then something happens and we lose our minds a little.”
With 90 minutes separating them from a shot at a European trophy and a route back to the Champions League, can United finish the job at home? Vote in our match predictor poll below and have your say in the comments here.
