Manchester United secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford on Thursday night, sealing a 7-1 aggregate triumph and setting up a high-stakes UEFA Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur.
The win gives United a lifeline in an otherwise dismal season, with the Europa League trophy offering not just silverware, but an automatic spot in next season’s Champions League a crucial incentive for manager Rúben Amorim as he eyes a major squad rebuild.
Fireworks and red smoke welcomed the team back to Manchester, following their dominant 3-0 first-leg win in Spain against a 10-man Bilbao side. Yet, despite the celebratory mood, there were lingering concerns over United’s inconsistency this season, particularly in the Premier League.
Amorim made eight changes to the side that lost 4-3 to Brentford at the weekend, restoring the line-up that impressed in Bilbao. The Spanish side, meanwhile, were hampered by the absence of key players including Dani Vivian (suspended), top scorer Oihan Sancet, and the Williams brothers, Nico and Iñaki.
Despite their depleted squad, Athletic showed early promise. Mikel Jauregizar gave the visitors a surprise lead in the 31st minute, rifling in a stunning strike from outside the box after a defensive lapse by United.
The Basque side looked the more dangerous for stretches, with Alex Berenguer threatening early and narrowly missing with a curling effort. Unai Gómez also came close in the second half, as United struggled to find their attacking rhythm.
But United’s response was emphatic. Substitute Mason Mount equalized in the 72nd minute with a composed finish from the edge of the area. Moments later, Casemiro headed in from a Bruno Fernandes cross to put United ahead.
Rasmus Højlund added a third with a scrappy finish before Mount sealed the rout with a spectacular second goal lofting the ball into an empty net from near the halfway line after a poor clearance from goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala.
Mount’s late brace capped a night of redemption for the injury-plagued midfielder, who has struggled for form since arriving at Old Trafford.
The final whistle confirmed United’s place in the Europa League final, where they will face Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao on May 21.
Victory would not only salvage a forgettable season but also provide Amorim with a stronger platform to attract top talent this summer.
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