Manchester United vs Athletic Club – UEFA Europa League Semi-final (Leg 2 of 2) – May 8, 2025 – Old Trafford

Manchester United return to Old Trafford with a commanding 3-0 lead over Athletic Club after a dominant first-leg performance in Bilbao. With one foot in the final, the Red Devils aim to complete the job, while the Basque side faces a monumental task to overturn the deficit.

First Leg Recap

In the first leg, United showcased clinical finishing and solid defense to secure a 3-0 victory. Goals from Bruno Fernandes, Rasmus Højlund, and Alejandro Garnacho put the visitors in control, leaving Athletic Club needing a near-miraculous comeback in Manchester.

Team News and Lineups

Manchester United are dealing with several injuries. Diogo Dalot is sidelined with a calf injury, prompting manager Ruben Amorim to consider alternatives like shifting Patrick Dorgu to right-back or deploying Noussair Mazraoui in that position. Matthijs de Ligt and Ayden Heaven remain unavailable, while Amad Diallo has returned to training and could feature.

Athletic Club are without Oihan Sancet due to a hamstring injury. Coach Ernesto Valverde is expected to field Julen Agirrezabala in goal, with a defense comprising Óscar de Marcos, Dani Vivian, Yeray Álvarez, and Yuri Berchiche. The midfield may feature Iñigo Ruiz de Galarreta and Mikel Jauregizar, while the attack includes Iñaki Williams, Nico Williams, and either Álex Berenguer or Unai Gómez, with Gorka Guruzeta or Maroan Sannadi leading the line.

Betting Perspective

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Prediction

Given United’s advantage and home support, they are well-positioned to advance to the final. Athletic Club will need an early goal to spark a comeback, but overcoming a three-goal deficit at Old Trafford is a formidable challenge.

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