Manchester United’s recent 3-0 victory against Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-final first leg has sparked questions: has Ruben Amorim finally left his mark on the club? Since his arrival from Sporting, Amorim has faced struggles in domestic competitions, with only six wins in 23 Premier League matches. However, his team’s success on European nights has provided some much-needed optimism. The commanding win over Bilbao could be his most significant achievement to date.

United’s Dominance Against Ten Men

Although Athletic Bilbao played most of the match with a man down, United’s performance was still impressive. Amorim’s side delivered a tactical and clinical performance against one of La Liga’s strongest defenses. The win showcased their ability to execute a game plan with precision and mental fortitude.

Paul Robinson, a former goalkeeper for Leeds, Tottenham, and Blackburn, praised United’s performance during a live radio broadcast. He noted that while Bilbao’s red card created an advantage for United, it still required exceptional execution and discipline to break down such a resolute defense.

Robbie Savage, an ex-United player, also lauded the team’s performance. Speaking on a sports network, he acknowledged the impact of the red card but emphasized how rare it is to breach such a defensively strong team three times in one match. It was a rare moment of brilliance for United under Amorim’s leadership.

Amorim’s United: Stumbles and Surprises

While Amorim’s United has struggled at times in the Premier League, there have been flashes of brilliance. The team has managed to defeat Manchester City, draw with Liverpool, eliminate Arsenal from the FA Cup, and secure a thrilling victory against Real Sociedad. Despite these moments, Amorim considered the win against Bilbao to be his most unexpected and impressive result. “I think this is our best result because nobody expected this,” Amorim said in a post-match interview.

Veterans Take Control as Nerves Settle

The game did not start smoothly for United. Several players appeared overwhelmed by the occasion. Midfielder Manuel Ugarte lost the ball multiple times in the first fifteen minutes, and the defense looked shaky, allowing Inaki Williams to almost score early on. United’s defense appeared disjointed, and the Bilbao fans’ relentless energy seemed to unsettle the team.

However, the seasoned players on the pitch quickly restored control. Casemiro, the veteran midfielder, played a pivotal role. His interceptions, accurate passes, and aerial strength provided stability in the middle of the park. Harry Maguire, once heavily criticized, had an unexpected assist with a cross from the right flank that led to Casemiro’s goal. Bruno Fernandes, unfazed by the pressure, converted a penalty with composure and later added a classy finish.

Amorim acknowledged the influence of these experienced players in stabilizing the team. He mentioned how younger players like Ugarte and Dorgu appeared anxious, but the presence of veterans like Casemiro, Maguire, and Fernandes provided vital leadership and calm under pressure.

A Historic First Half and the Road to the Final

United’s three-goal first half was historic in European competitions. It was their first such performance since November 2020 against Istanbul Basaksehir, and their first away instance since September 2017 against CSKA Moscow—both matches occurred in the Champions League.

With a commanding 3-0 lead, Bilbao now faces a daunting task in the second leg. Scoring four goals at Old Trafford seems a tall order for the Spanish side, and an all-English final between United and Tottenham now looks increasingly likely. Tottenham secured a 3-1 win over Bodo/Glimt in their first leg.

United’s focus will now be on maintaining their composure in the second leg. “We want our fans to travel twice to Bilbao,” said Bruno Fernandes. He acknowledged the excellent first-half performance but suggested that United could have applied more pressure after the break. Nevertheless, Fernandes was confident in the team’s control over the game.

Amorim’s Caution Ahead of the Second Leg

Despite the strong performance, Amorim warned against complacency. While he acknowledged that United holds a clear advantage, especially with the home crowd behind them, he remained cautious. “Anything can happen in one game,” Amorim cautioned reporters, reminding the team that the tie is not over yet.

United’s path to the final now looks more certain, but the second leg will be crucial. As Amorim’s tenure at Old Trafford progresses, the win against Bilbao could prove to be the turning point in his Manchester United career. If he can replicate this performance in the return leg and secure a spot in the final, Amorim may finally secure his place in the club’s history.