He is a 'special player': Amorim admits 22yo star is Athletic's most dangerous attacking weapon

Manchester United are set for a fiery encounter at San Mames as they take on Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the Europa League semi-finals tomorrow.

Ahead of the crucial tie, United head coach Ruben Amorim praised Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams.

He said (via ManUtd.com): “They are really strong as a team, they are really intense, they are really aggressive.

“They have great players one against one. Nico Williams is a special player.

“They are the best defence in Spain in the league and we are not scoring too many goals so it’s going to be a tough match for us.”

Fantastic wingers could threaten United

Athletic have won all their home games in the competition this season.

While their rock-solid defence has earned plaudits, it is their electric wingers who could cause United real trouble.

Nico Williams and his brother Inaki Williams are capable of ripping defences apart with their pace and flair.

They will be aiming to stretch United’s backline all night long.

The responsibility to contain the Williams duo will fall on Patrick Dorgu and Noussair Mazraoui.

With Diogo Dalot sidelined, Mazraoui will need to raise his game, especially when it comes to keeping Nico in check.

The Moroccan international is not known for his pace.

He will need to stay switched on and positionally sharp to avoid being left behind in footraces.

The Spanish star has netted five goals and recorded two assists in 12 Europa League games this campaign.

Though speculation over his future continues, his eyes will be firmly set on guiding Athletic to European silverware.

United have shown interest in bringing the 22-year-old to Old Trafford, but their current focus remains on landing Wolverhampton Wanderers star Matheus Cunha.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .