Europa League: Man United vs. Athletic Bilbao Picks — Red Devils to Keep UCL Dreams Alive? (May 8)

It is advantage Man United following the first leg between the clubs last week, as Athletic Bilbao were handed a rare 3-0 defeat in front of their own fans.

Bruno Fernandes has been the standout player in the competition this season, and the Portuguese midfielder was at his best in Spain last week after netting a brace.

However, United’s issues throughout this season means that there will be slight concern surrounding whether the Red Devils will hold onto their advantage at Old Trafford.

Odds

United Claim First Win Over Bilbao

Man United claimed a first win over Bilbao in the Europa League last week.

The previous meetings between the sides have been high-scoring affairs, with an average of 4.4 goals being scored per fixture. It could be worth noting that Bilbao have lost seven of their last nine away matches against English clubs.

Man United vs. Athletic Bilbao Key Stats

• In European soccer, only one team has ever claimed a three-goal first leg advantage on the road before suffering elimination.
• Man United are unbeaten in their 13 Europa League matches this season.

Man United Team News

Matthijs de Ligt limped off for United in their Premier League clash at Brentford on Sunday. Lisandro Martinez and Joshua Zirkzee remain out for the season.

Possible Lineup

A. Onana (GK); V. Lindelof, H. Maguire, L. Yoro, P. Dorgu, M. Ugarte, Casemiro, L. Shaw, B. Fernandes, A. Diallo, R. Hojlund

Athletic Bilbao Team News

Dani Vivian is suspended after being sent off in the first leg between the sides. Oihan Sancet is also absent due to a hamstring injury.

Possible Lineup

J. Agirrezabala (GK); O. de Marcos, A. Paredes, Y. Alvarez, Y. Berchiche, I. Galarreta, M. Jauregizar, I. Williams, A. Berenguer, N. Williams, M. Sannadi

Man United vs. Athletic Bilbao Picks

Man United will feel as though they have one foot in the final following a healthy win in Spain last week.

However, Bilbao showed in the opening exchanges that their attacking players can cause issues. Therefore, it could be worth siding with the visitors picking up a win on the night to make the home support sweat at Old Trafford.