Preview: Manchester United vs Athletic Club – Europa League Semi-Final, Second Leg
Manchester United are set to host Athletic Club tonight at Old Trafford in the second leg of the Europa League semi-final, holding a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first leg in Bilbao.
With the final within reach, Ruben Amorim’s side will look to avoid any surprises and confirm their spot in the May 21 showdown at San Mames.
Team News and Predicted XI
After rotating heavily for the 4-3 loss to Brentford in the Premier League, Amorim is expected to restore several key players for tonight’s crucial European fixture.
Predicted Formation: 3-4-2-1
Goalkeeper:
- Andre Onana returns between the posts after being rested last weekend.
Defence:
- A reshaped back three should feature Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, and Noussair Mazraoui.
- Matthijs de Ligt misses out due to a minor injury, while Luke Shaw and Tyler Fredricson are expected to drop to the bench.
Wing-Backs:
- Amad Diallo, continuing his recovery and sharpness, could start on the right.
- Patrick Dorgu is expected on the left, replacing youngster Harry Amass.
Midfield:
- Casemiro, fresh from his goal in the first leg, will partner Manuel Ugarte, pushing Kobbie Mainoo to the bench.
Attack:
- Alejandro Garnacho, in red-hot form, should operate as the right-sided playmaker.
- Bruno Fernandes, the captain, will take up the opposite role.
- Leading the line will be Rasmus Hojlund, who won a key penalty and red card in the first leg.
Notable Absences:
- Chido Obi, despite starting last weekend, is ineligible for tonight’s match as he wasn’t registered in the Europa League List-A squad.
Likely XI:
Onana – Maguire, Yoro, Mazraoui – Amad, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu – Garnacho, Fernandes – Hojlund
Final Word
United have one foot in the Europa League final, but Amorim will be urging his side to finish the job professionally. With home advantage and a near full-strength squad, the Red Devils are clear favourites to progress.
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