Manchester United secured their spot in the Europa League Final with a commanding performance against Athletic Club, sealing a 7-1 aggregate victory after a 4-1 triumph at Old Trafford. This marks United's ninth major European final and their first since the 2020-21 UEFA Europa League, where they narrowly lost to Villarreal on penalties.
The night belonged to Mason Mount, whose introduction off the bench proved to be a masterstroke. The former Chelsea midfielder scored a brace, becoming the first Manchester United substitute to net twice in a European knockout match since David Beckham's heroics against Real Madrid in the 2003 Champions League quarter-finals. Mount's first was a clinical finish that sparked United's late surge, while his second—a spectacular long-range strike—put the game well out of Athletic's reach.
United's other goals came courtesy of Casemiro, who powered home a header, and Rasmus Hojlund, who tapped in after some clever buildup play. Athletic Club, who initially went ahead through Jauregizar in the first half, were left to rue missed opportunities as their hopes of reaching a home final slipped away. This is the first time the Spanish side has failed to progress from a European semi-final, having previously reached the final on their two other attempts.
Statistically, United were superior, boasting an xG of 2.0 compared to Athletic's 0.79, underlining their dominance in the latter stages. With the victory, Erik ten Hag's men will face Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final, setting up an all-English clash with European glory at stake.
Up next, Manchester United shift their focus back to domestic matters as they prepare to take on West Ham on Sunday, while Athletic Club look to secure Champions League qualification via LaLiga when they host Alaves.
Manchester United’s quest for European silverware continues. Can they go all the way this time?
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