Athletic Bilbao vs Man United: Match facts, Match preview, team news, key players

Manchester United face Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-final first leg on Thursday evening at San Mames Stadium.

United defeated Lyon 7-6 on aggregate in the quarter-final to advance to this stage. They remain the only unbeaten side in the competition this term.

Athletic defeated Rangers 2-0 on aggregate to reach this stage. They have been beaten twice in this competition this term.

Match facts

United have won just one of their previous four competitive games against Athletic.

Athletic have won all their home games in the Europa League this term, scoring 14 goals and conceding twice.

United have won two and drawn four of their six away games in the competition.

Match preview

Man United must win the Europa League to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Despite their poor league form, they have been in good form in this tournament and are among the favourites to win it.

With Athletic’s perfect home record, United must play better than they did against Lyon to get a positive result.

While Athletic are poised to qualify for the Champions League via La Liga, they will be motivated to win this competition.

The club have never won a European competition, and the final takes place in their stadium.

Team news

United will be without right-wing-back Diogo Dalot, who has suffered a calf injury.

They have other injury concerns ahead of the tie. Manager Ruben Amorim will share an update on his squad’s injury status in his pre-match conference today.

Midfielder Oihan Sancet is unlikely to be fit for Athletic, but forward Nico Williams should be in contention.

Key players

Athletic Bilbao

Nico Williams: The Spanish winger has scored in the last three home games in this tournament.

Yuri Berchiche: The 35-year-old has been one of the most outstanding left-backs in the competition. He is expected to play a vital role for the Spanish side.

Man United

Bruno Fernandes: The Portuguese registered two goal involvements against Lyon. He has been United’s most consistent performer this season.

Harry Maguire: The centre-back scored the goal that booked United’s place in this round. His contributions will be vital for the Red Devils.

Stats from transfermarkt.co.uk.

Article written by Henry Thornton .