Athletic Bilbao v Manchester United Prediction & Betting Tips

Thursday | 19:00 UTC | San Mamés | Europa League Semi-Final (1st Leg)

Manchester United’s season now hinges entirely on the Europa League, but their trip to San Mamés could spell more misery. Athletic Bilbao are unbeaten at home in Europe this season, and they’ll fancy their chances of making it 7 from 7.

United’s Last Shot at Silverware

It’s been a campaign to forget for the Red Devils, who sit 14th in the Premier League and haven’t won in 90 minutes in any of their last 7 games. New manager Ruben Amorim has yet to steady the ship, and their narrow escape in the last round, coming back from 4-2 down in extra time to beat Lyon 5-4, did little to inspire confidence.

United have shown flashes in Europe, but even those have been chaotic rather than convincing. And they’ll need to be far more organised if they’re to survive the cauldron that is San Mamés.

Fortress San Mamés

Athletic Bilbao have been ruthless at home in Europe this season. Ernesto Valverde’s side have won all 6 of their Europa League games at San Mamés by a combined score of 14-2, taking down Roma and Rangers along the way. The Basques are disciplined, structured, and playing with a purpose, particularly with the Europa League final set to be hosted in their own backyard.

They also boast the best defensive record in La Liga, conceding just 26 goals across the season—better than Barcelona, Real Madrid or Atletico.

How the Bookies See It

The bookmakers are favouring the hosts. Athletic Bilbao are even-money (2.00) to win the first leg, while Manchester United are out at 3.85. A draw is priced at 3.40 & Inaki Williams is 3.50 to score anytime.

Head-to-Head: First European Meeting

This will be the first time these two sides meet in European competition since Bilbao’s memorable 5-3 aggregate win in the 2011/12 Europa League. They won both legs that year, including a famous 2-1 win at Old Trafford.

Players to Watch

Inaki Williams has netted 5 times in the Europa League and should lead the line with brother Nico recovering from a recent knock. He’s a constant threat in transition and could be the difference-maker again.

For United, the focus will be on damage limitation. With defensive lapses costing them dearly in recent games, the back line will need to improve dramatically.

Predicted Lineups

Athletic Bilbao: Simon; De Marcos, Vivian, Paredes, Berchiche; Sancet, Vesga; Nico Williams, Muniain, Berenguer; Inaki Williams
Manchester United: Onana; Mazraoui, Yoro, Maguire, Lindelof, Dorgu; Casemiro, Mainoo; Garnacho, Fernandes; Hojlund