Despite a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first leg, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim insists his side must be prepared to suffer in order to secure a place in the Europa League final.
The Premier League giants will face Athletic Bilbao in the second leg at Old Trafford, holding a comfortable lead thanks to three first-half goals in Spain.
However, Amorim remains cautious, pointing to United’s erratic form in domestic competition—they currently sit 15th in the Premier League standings.
“If you look at our team, we cannot say today what is going to happen. There are some teams in any league that can understand the game is going to be like this and could change a little bit,” Amorim told reporters.
“We have to face the game as one more game. I feel we have to score to go to the next round. That is how we are going to approach the game. We will have to suffer a little bit to go to the final, and we are ready to suffer.”
United’s preparations have been disrupted by injuries. Dutch centre back Matthijs de Ligt will miss the second leg after sustaining an injury during the recent 4-3 loss to Brentford.
“It’s not a big issue, that is a good thing. He cannot play tomorrow or Sunday, but then we will check day by day, we will see. (Centre back) Ayden (Heaven) doesn’t recover. (Defensive midfielder) Toby (Collyer) is not available,” said Amorim.
Athletic Bilbao will also be without key players, with both Nico Williams and his brother Inaki ruled out of the crucial clash.
Amorim also addressed speculation surrounding club captain Bruno Fernandes, who has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League. The 30-year-old has been a standout performer this season, tallying 19 goals and 18 assists in 52 appearances.
“I think it is easy to understand that (transfer speculation), not just because of the numbers but the way he plays, He is a top player and we need top players. He is a leader, the captain.” Amorim said.
United will look to seal their place in the final on Thursday night, but Amorim’s message remains clear: nothing is guaranteed.
