3 AM Clash: Europa League Powerhouses – Manchester United Takes on La Liga's 4th Place with Two Key Players Returning

In the early hours of May 2, 2025, Manchester United will face Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the Europa League semifinals at San Mamés. This marks the first meeting between the two sides in 13 years, and with both teams in excellent form, it promises to be a thrilling encounter. United, aiming for the trophy, will take on Bilbao, who have been unbeatable at home in the competition this season. The stage is set for an exciting, high-stakes battle.

The History Between These Two Teams

Historically, the two clubs have clashed four times, with Manchester United trailing in the head-to-head count. In the 1956-57 European Cup quarterfinals, United lost 3-5 in the first leg but staged a remarkable comeback in the return leg, winning 3-0. More recently, in the 2011-12 Europa League Round of 16, United suffered a double defeat to Bilbao, losing 2-3 at home and 1-2 away.

These encounters have set a precedent for high drama between the two teams, but with Manchester United’s improved squad and desire to claim European glory, this matchup promises to be a true test of their ambitions.

An Epic Showdown: Unbeaten Manchester United vs. Perfect Bilbao at Home

This season’s Europa League has seen some strong performances, with Manchester United being the only team left in the competition unbeaten. Through the group stages, United played eight matches, winning five and drawing three. In the knockout stages, they triumphed over Real Sociedad 5-2 on aggregate in the Round of 16, followed by a narrow 7-6 victory over Lyon in the quarterfinals. Their 12-game unbeaten run is a testament to their resilience, making them one of the strongest contenders for the title.

Athletic Bilbao, on the other hand, is in impressive form, especially on their home turf. With a 100% record in the competition at San Mamés, Bilbao has been formidable. In the Europa League group stage, they won all four of their home matches. Moving into the knockout rounds, they defeated Roma 3-1 at home in the Round of 16 and secured a 2-0 victory over Rangers in the quarterfinals. Their perfect record at home presents a significant challenge for United, but with their unbeaten streak, United will be eager to break Bilbao’s dominance at home.

Key Players Returning for United

Manchester United has received a boost ahead of this critical encounter, with two key players returning to full training: winger Amad Diallo and center-back Matthijs de Ligt. Diallo, who had been sidelined since February due to an ankle ligament injury, is an important part of United’s attacking force. The 22-year-old has been involved in 16 goal contributions across all competitions this season, with 9 goals and 7 assists. His return is a welcome sight for manager Aitor Amorín, who was initially concerned that Diallo might miss the rest of the season. Diallo’s presence could be crucial for United as they look to capitalize on counterattacks and break down Bilbao’s defense.

De Ligt, the Dutch defender, has also recovered from a recent injury and is set to bolster United’s defensive options. Having missed United’s previous games since early April, the return of de Ligt adds depth to the defensive line and provides more tactical flexibility for Amorín. With both of these players back in contention, Manchester United’s squad is looking stronger than ever.

The Williams Brothers: Bilbao’s Dynamic Duo

Athletic Bilbao also boasts some powerful attacking talent, with a pair of brothers leading the charge up front. Iñaki Williams, wearing the number 9 shirt, has been a standout for the Basque club, netting 11 goals in 46 appearances this season. His younger brother, Nico Williams, is also in fine form, having scored 11 goals in 42 games this season. Nico, who shone for Spain at last summer’s European Championship, has continued to impress for Bilbao. The Williams brothers, who both play as wingers, will be a handful for United’s defense, and the likes of Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui will have to be at their best to contain the duo.

Iñaki’s physicality and pace make him a constant threat in the air and on the ground, while Nico’s dribbling skills and flair add a creative edge to Bilbao’s attack. United’s defenders will need to remain vigilant throughout the game to prevent these two from running riot.

Lineups and Tactical Outlook

Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1): Agirrezabala; De Marcos, Vivian, Yeray, Balenziaga; Guruzeta, Zarraga; Iñaki Williams, Berenguer, Nico Williams; Sancet

Manchester United (3-4-3): Onana; Varane, Maguire, De Ligt; Mazraoui, Ugarte, Casemiro, Dalot; Garnacho, Hojlund, Bruno Fernandes

Both teams are expected to adopt attacking setups for this encounter. Bilbao’s 4-2-3-1 formation will see them rely on their wing play to stretch United’s defense. In particular, Iñaki and Nico Williams will look to isolate United’s fullbacks and create space for the attacking midfielders, Sancet and Berenguer, to exploit.

Manchester United, set up in a 3-4-3 formation, will focus on controlling possession and transitioning quickly into attack. With Bruno Fernandes pulling the strings in midfield and Garnacho, Hojlund, and Bruno Fernandes providing attacking options, United will aim to break down Bilbao’s defensive lines through quick, incisive passes. The return of Diallo could further enhance their offensive play, providing additional width and speed on the wings.

Excitement and Expectations

As the clock ticks down toward the 3 AM kickoff, fans of both teams are bracing for what could be one of the most thrilling matches of the season. Athletic Bilbao’s perfect record at home will be put to the test against an unbeaten Manchester United, while the return of key players adds an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup. Both teams will be eager to take the advantage in the first leg, knowing that the outcome will go a long way in determining their chances of reaching the Europa League final.

Manchester United’s unbeaten run is on the line, while Athletic Bilbao’s fortress is about to be put under siege. With the likes of the Williams brothers on one side and the likes of Fernandes and Diallo on the other, the stage is set for a high-octane, edge-of-the-seat contest. Whether it’s the youthful flair of Bilbao or the steely resilience of United that prevails, this match will certainly live up to its billing as a clash of European heavyweights.

In the end, this game is a true test of strength, skill, and mental fortitude, and it promises to be a captivating encounter for fans across the world.