Manchester United vs Athletic Bilbao Injury Updates: Who Will Miss Out Europa League Semifinal Today?

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Manchester United are set to face Athletic Bilbao in the return leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-finals on Thursday (May 8) at Old Trafford Stadium. Holding a 3-0 lead from the first leg, United have the upper hand while the Spanish club will be under pressure to overturn the deficit. Both sides, however, are dealing with multiple injuries, which could influence their performances on the night.

For Ruben Amorim, it is going to be a challenging fixture, especially given his team’s erratic form and the unavailability of key first-team players due to injuries. However, Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro are expected to return for tonight’s clash, having been rested in the last match against Brentford.

Things are worse for Athletic Bilbao, who not only face a three-goal deficit but also suffer from injury setbacks. Nico Williams and his brother Inaki Williams, crucial to Bilbao’s attack, are unavailable due to injuries. Oihan Sancet, the team’s top scorer in La Liga, is also ruled out, severely weakening their attack. Centre-back Dani Vivian is also suspended and will miss the fixture. Midfielder Unai Gomez remains doubtful for this vital encounter.

Manchester United vs Athletic Bilbao: Man United Injury Updates

Matthijs de Ligt was forced off in the first half against Brentford on Sunday and was not part of the training squad on Wednesday. The Dutch midfielder has struggled with injuries recently, having made his return as a substitute in the first leg versus Bilbao before starting against the Bees. Consequently, De Ligt is expected to miss this game. With him out, Victor Lindelof will likely start in defense alongside Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro.

In the post-match conference, Amorim said, “I don’t know. We will see. I hope it’s nothing serious...I’m really concerned. Not about Thursday…but I’m more concerned whether it is a small or big injury and thinking about next season.”

In defence, alongside Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez is ruled out as well, having sustained a serious knee injury earlier in the season. Forward Amad Diallo is sidelined due to an ankle issue and won’t feature again this campaign.

Ayden Heaven is also another addition to the injured defenders' list. In midfield, Toby Collyer will also miss the match. Joshua Zirkzee is also out for the season after picking up an injury during the game against Newcastle last month. Rasmus Hojlund is expected to lead the attack in Zirkzee’s absence.