The Basque club seeks a place in the Europa League final, and only Manchester United now stand in their way. The first leg of the semifinals will take place at San Mames on May 1, 2025. The Nerve Africa looks into the upcoming match.
Key Facts
- Just one of United’s last 63 European games have ended goalless
- Bilbao last reached the Europa League final in 2011/12
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United Match Preview
With San Mames set to host the final of the Europa League, Athletic Bilbao have an extra incentive to reach the final and play for glory on home soil. They haven’t been this close since 2011/12 and will be desperate to take full advantage of their home crowd.
On the other hand, Manchester United have endured a difficult domestic season, but the Europa League offers a chance to salvage success. A strong result away from home could put them within touching distance of a European final.
Iñaki Williams Key to the Hosts
The 30-year-old Ghanaian forward has been one of Bilbao’s standout players this season, netting five goals and providing an assist in the Europa League campaign. In La Liga, he has continued to impress with six goals and eight assists, showcasing his all-round importance to the team.
This semifinal represents Williams’ biggest stage yet this season, and he will be eager to deliver when it matters most.
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United Head-to-Head Record
- Manchester United 1-1 Athletic Bilbao
- Athletic Bilbao 2-1 Manchester United
- Manchester United 2-3 Athletic Bilbao
Bilbao have won two of their three competitive meetings against United.
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United Betting Odds
- Bilbao win – 2.08 (1xBet)
- Manchester United win – 3.94 (1xBet)
- Draw – 3.56 (1xBet)
Our Prediction for Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United
Athletic Bilbao are expected to use their home advantage at a packed San Mames to full effect and earn a slim victory ahead of the return leg in Manchester.
Scoreline Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 2-1 Manchester United
