‘Without cup, this win means nothing’

Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United are one match away from qualifying for next season’s Champions League after a 4-1 (7-1 agg) win over Athletic Bilbao to set up a Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur.

The Red Devils came into Thursday’s second leg at Old Trafford with a comfortable 3-0 cushion. But the 4-1 scoreline gives a misleading impression of the match as the nervy home side struggled to gain a foothold after falling behind to a superb Mikel Jauregizar strike in the 31st minute. 

However, Amorim’s decision to bring on attacking midfielder Mason Mount and winger Amad Diallo shortly after the hour mark changed the game. 

Mount, who has been a peripheral figure since joining United in 2023 due to injuries, scored the equaliser after pirouetting and shooting in one swift motion in the 72nd minute.

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Ruben Amorim

Veteran midfielder Casemiro then gave Amorim’s team the lead with a 79th minute header via a cross from Bruno Fernandes.

Six minutes later, off-colour striker Rasmus Hojlund netted from close range following a cut-back from Diallo, who was causing mayhem down the right flank.

Mount then doubled his tally for the night with a lofted shot from 30 yards out to create a party atmosphere at Old Trafford.

“I think if you look at both games, it was so much tougher than if you look just at the result,” said Amorim. 

“We have so many weaknesses, but we are fighting and we managed to pass [through to the final]. I think we deserve it,” he added.

Amorim admitted the title clash in Bilbao, on May 22, would be his biggest match so far at the club. 

“To win a title as a coach gives the feeling that we can do good things, the feeling to give something to our fans, especially in this kind of [turbulent] season.  I’m stressed already because of the final. If we don’t do it [win the title], it means nothing,” Amorim concluded.

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