Manchester United have one foot in the Europa League final after a devastatingly dominant display away to Athletic Club.
Ruben Amorim really could not have asked for any more from his players tonight – although as high an advantage as possible in the Reds’ favour wouldn’t go amiss!
For Bilbao, watching the scoreline progress from one goal conceded to three likely happened in the blink of an eye – especially given that they went down to 10 men in the process.
Standout Reds stole the show in Bilbao
Numerous players have covered themselves in glory throughout the night, particularly in the first half. After getting an earful from Casemiro for continuously losing the ball early on, Manuel Ugarte notched two assists and put in a tremendous shift to see out his cameo before being replaced by Mason Mount.
Harry Maguire’s attacking heroics to set up the first goal were nothing short of remarkable – who knew he had that in his locker? As has so frequently been the case this season, the centre-half was an absolute stalwart in the 64 minutes he played.
Robbie Savage wowed by top-drawer Bruno Fernandes
Yet, the player who left co-commentator Robbie Savage in awe was none other than Bruno Fernandes, whose two goals will cap off yet another scintillating performance from Amorim’s most invaluable and irreplaceable figure.
“What a performance, what a player,” said the ex-Red on TNT Sports’ coverage. Unsurprisingly, the skipper finished the first half with the highest Sofascore rating of anyone on the pitch with an 8.7.
In the build-up to tonight’s fixture, it was claimed Amorim would make wholesale changes to his XI for the Premier League clash sandwiched between both semi-final legs – a trip to face Brentford on Sunday afternoon. It remains to be seen if that will still be the case, given the lead United will take to Old Trafford.
Great result for United, but concentration still needed in return leg at Old Trafford. We must score first and then put it to bed. Everyone gave their all last night, same again next week. Great to see Amad and De ligt back as well as Mount. Come on UNITED.