Manchester United are on the verge of securing a place in the Europa League final as they welcome Athletic Bilbao to Old Trafford for the second leg of their semi-final on Thursday.
The Red Devils hold a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg in Spain, and with the backing of the home crowd, they are strong favourites to finish the job. However, Ernesto Valverde’s men will be looking to produce a European miracle and restore pride with a strong showing in Manchester.
MANCHESTER UNITED VS ATHLETIC BILBAO PREVIEW
Manchester United’s Europa League campaign has been impressive from start to finish. Under the guidance of Rúben Amorim, the Red Devils have gone unbeaten in the competition, with eight wins and five draws from their 13 matches. They have scored 31 goals while conceding just 17, highlighting their attacking firepower and relative defensive stability.
In the group stage, United finished third overall with 18 points from five wins and three draws. Their dominant 3-0 first leg victory over Athletic Bilbao showcased their ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most, with a clinical performance in the Basque Country.
However, recent domestic form has shown signs of inconsistency. A 4-3 defeat to Brentford in the Premier League raised questions about defensive concentration, particularly when facing high-pressure situations.
Despite this, United’s strength at Old Trafford and their overall record in Europe this season suggest they remain firmly in control of the tie.
Athletic Bilbao, meanwhile, find themselves needing a near-perfect performance to have any hope of reaching the final. Their Europa League journey has been strong overall, with eight wins, two draws, and three defeats. They scored 21 goals and conceded 13 during the competition, with a solid defensive base that was uncharacteristically exposed in the first leg.
Valverde’s side had finished second in the group stage with 19 points, collecting six wins, one draw, and one defeat. The 3-0 defeat at home to Manchester United was one of their heaviest of the season and a major blow to their momentum.
To turn the tie around, Bilbao will need to take risks. Their approach at Old Trafford is expected to be bold and attack-minded, which could leave them vulnerable at the back — especially against United’s pace in transition.
MANCHESTER UNITED VS ATHLETIC BILBAO – PREDICTIONS
Manchester United Win
With the first-leg advantage and home support, United are favourites to win again and advance to the final. The odds of 2.13 at 1win offer solid value.
Both Teams To Score
Athletic Bilbao must score early to stand any chance of turning the tie, which could open up space at the back. A goal from each side is likely in this scenario, making BTTS an appealing bet.
Draw
A draw is possible if United adopt a more cautious approach to protect their lead, and Bilbao fail to find a breakthrough.
MANCHESTER UNITED VS ATHLETIC BILBAO – BETTING TIPS
Manchester United to Win
The Red Devils have shown strength in Europe and should secure another victory at Old Trafford. At odds of 2.13 with 1win, this bet has value given their dominance in the first leg.
Both Teams to Score – Yes
With Bilbao needing to push forward and United dangerous on the counter, both teams finding the net is a realistic outcome. Odds of 1.75 at Paripesa make this an attractive market.
Handicap Markets
For higher-risk bettors, a Manchester United -1 handicap could also be considered if the home side aim to send a message ahead of the final.
HEAD-TO-HEAD AND KEY STATS
- Manchester United lead 3-0 after the first leg.
- The last four encounters between the two clubs have seen Athletic win twice, United once, and one draw.
- United are unbeaten in this Europa League campaign (8W, 5D).
- Athletic Bilbao have won 8, drawn 2, and lost 3 in the competition so far.
- United have scored 31 goals, Athletic 21, in their respective Europa League runs.
