Man United Starting XI vs Athletic Bilbao: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Man Utd Predicted Lineup vs Athletic Club: Amorim Balances Fitness and Form in Bilbao

Cautious Optimism as United Return to European Stage

Manchester United’s journey into the defining stretch of their Europa League campaign continues tonight as they face Athletic Club at San Mamés — a fixture steeped in tradition and high-stakes tension. There is no disguising the significance of this tie for Ruben Amorim, whose first season at the helm now hinges on threading a delicate balance between ambition and attrition.

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The return of key figures has lifted spirits, though cautious pragmatism remains the order of the day. Amad Diallo and Matthijs de Ligt have rejoined the squad after respective injury absences, but neither is expected to start. “They can be in the squad for the game,” Amorim confirmed. “We have brought young kids to prepare for the next game.”

Photo: IMAGO

Familiar Core to Anchor Predicted Lineup

With de Ligt not yet match fit and Amad lacking sharpness after a lengthy spell out, United will likely field the same defensive unit that started the 1-1 draw against Bournemouth. Diogo Dalot joins the list of absentees, while Lisandro Martinez and Joshua Zirkzee remain sidelined.

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Tactically, Amorim has leaned into continuity. Rasmus Hojlund should again spearhead the attack, supported by Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho. Manuel Ugarte is tipped to return alongside Casemiro, offering midfield steel in the absence of Kobbie Mainoo, who drops to the bench.

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Youth Integration and Squad Depth in Focus

With United juggling continental demands and a domestic push, squad rotation is inevitable. Youngsters such as Toby Collyer may find themselves on the bench, while Chido Obi, despite his promise, is unavailable after being omitted from United’s revised UEFA squad in February.

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There remains a sense that United’s campaign has been both reshaped and refined under Amorim. His patient approach, even when short-handed, has restored structure to a club often caught between identity and improvisation.

Predicted Man Utd XI vs Athletic Club

Predicted XI: Onana; Yoro, Maguire, Shaw; Mazraoui, Ugarte, Casemiro, Dorgu; Garnacho, Fernandes; HojlundKick-off: 8pm BST, Thursday 1 May 2025Venue: San Mamés, BilbaoBroadcast: TNT Sports