'Yellow is waiting': Thiago Silva sends message to United star who won 9 duels vs Athletic Bilbao last night

Manchester United secured a 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final on Thursday night.

The Red Devils had a nervy start at the Estadio de San Mames and were outplayed for the opening 25 minutes of the contest.

However, they opened the scoring through Casemiro in the 30th minute after a brilliant cross from Harry Maguire in the lead-up.

Things went pear-shaped for Athletic thereafter.

Bruno Fernandes doubled United’s advantage from the penalty spot after the Spanish club went down to 10 men.

Fernandes made it 3-0 in United’s favour before the half-time interval.

United should have extended the lead after the break, but will be delighted to go into the second leg with a comfortable advantage.

Casemiro was one of the stand-out players against the Basque outfit.

Shortly after the game, the midfielder said on Instagram that it was a ‘great win’ for the Red Devils but he has ‘maximum respect’ for the opposition ahead of the second leg.

Brazilian star Thiago Silva was one of those who responded. The central defender said ‘Yellow is waiting for you’, a suggestion that Brazil could recall Casemiro.

Here is a screenshot

Casemiro has struggled to cope with the physicality of the Premier League over the past 18 months. He has been guilty of losing possession in the lead-up to multiple goals.

The 33-year-old has fared much better in the Europa League. The pace of the game has suited him. He has stepped up against La Liga clubs due to his vast experience with Real Madrid.

Against Bilbao, the midfielder rolled back the years with 109 touches and 74 passes. He won an impressive nine duels in the game with six recoveries and five clearances.

He is definitely undroppable in the competition for manager Ruben Amorim. United must keep him fit for the return leg and a possible final at San Mames later this month.

Article written by Sri Aswin .