Manchester United are on the verge of reaching the Europa League final following a commanding 3-0 away win against Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of their semi-final tie. The Red Devils are hoping to avoid a collapse in the return leg at Old Trafford this Thursday, which would set up a likely all-English final with Tottenham Hotspur, who hold a 3-1 lead over Bodo/Glimt.
Despite their success in Europe, Uniteds domestic form has been abysmal. A 2-0 defeat to Brentford on Sunday marked their 16th Premier League loss of the season-their worst league campaign in 35 years. Currently sitting in 15th place, United are on course for their lowest finish since relegation in 1974, although they are not in danger of going down.
Manager Ruben Amorim has prioritised the Europa League, resting key players at Brentford and fielding the third-youngest line-up in Premier League history. Speaking ahead of Thursdays decider, the Portuguese coach labelled the match as "the most important game" of their season.
With a place in the Champions League at stake for the Europa League winners, Amorim acknowledged the significance of the competition, not only for prestige but also for the financial boost and increased appeal in the transfer market. However, he admitted United are not yet equipped to juggle the demands of both the Premier League and Champions League next season.
Amorim's stint at United has been far from smooth. Since taking over from Erik ten Hag in November, only three relegated teams-Ipswich, Leicester, and Southampton-have won fewer games. Still, the team's European run has been kept alive by captain Bruno Fernandes, whose two goals in the first leg were crucial. The midfielder has now been directly involved in 31 goals in 32 Europa League knockout matches, the highest tally by any player since the tournaments rebranding in 2009.