TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Manchester United must maintain their focus as they head into the second leg of the Europa League semifinal against Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford on Friday, May 9, 2025.
Despite securing a 3-0 advantage in the first leg, United manager Ruben Amorim is urging his players to stay alert.
With the commanding win, United has taken a strong step toward reaching the Europa League final. But Amorim remains cautious. "If you look at our team, we cannot predict what will happen," he said, as quoted on the official Manchester United website.
His concern is not unfounded. United has struggled in the English Premier League this season and currently sits in 15th place, an unusual position for the club.
Amorim emphasized the importance of not taking anything for granted.
"We have to face the game as one more game. I feel we have to score to go to the next round. That is how we are going to approach the game. We will have to suffer a little bit to go to the final, and we are ready to suffer," the Portuguese coach said.
The team will be without central defender Matthijs de Ligt, who picked up an injury during last weekend’s 4-3 defeat to Brentford.
"It's not a big issue, that is a good thing. He cannot play tomorrow or Sunday, but then we will check day by day, we will see. (Centre back) Ayden (Heaven) doesn't recover. (Defensive midfielder) Toby (Collyer) is not available," said Amorim.
Athletic Bilbao also faces challenges, with winger Nico Williams and his brother Inaki ruled out for the second leg at Old Trafford.
Amorim was also asked about Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, who has been the subject of transfer speculation. According to the coach, the club is keen to keep the 30-year-old midfielder, who has had an outstanding season with 19 goals and 18 assists in 52 appearances across all competitions.
"I think it is easy to understand that (transfer speculation), not just because of the numbers but the way he plays. He is a top player and we need top players. He is a leader, the captain," said Amorim.
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