Ruben Amorim will hope to keep the semi-final rather more straightforward, but that may not be easy – barring the Lyon comeback, United are winless since March 16, when they beat Leicester 3-0.
Athletic are in the midst of a strong season, sitting fourth in LaLiga with just one loss in their last 10 matches across all competitions.
They have recorded four draws in that time, though, three of which were goalless. Whether United can overcome such a stern defence will prove pivotal.
Date, kick-off time and venue
The match will take place at the Estadio de San Mames in Bilbao, which will also host the Europa League final on May 21.
Night to remember: There was bedlam at Old Trafford after Harry Maguire’s last-gasp winner against Lyon
Martin Rickett/PA Wire
Where to watch Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage beginning at 7pm.
Live stream: TNT Sports subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the Discovery+ app and website.
Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport’s live blog.
Free highlights: The TNT Sports app and YouTube channel will show highlights at full-time.
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United team news
United have struggled with injuries of late, and are set to be without eight players for the trip to Spain. The most recent additions to the treatment room is Altay Bayindir, who suffered an injury in training, and Toby Collyer, who sustained a knock which he has struggled to shake off.
Matthijs de Ligt had been reported to be close to a return from his ankle injury, as had Ayden Heaven, but both are expected to miss out on Thursday night. Amad Diallo may return before the end of the season, but Diogo Dalot, Joshua Zirkzee, and Lisandro Martinez will all remain sidelined.
Wait: Matthijs de Ligt was said to be close to returning for Manchester United
Action Images via Reuters
Athletic are facing an anxious wait to see whether Nico Williams will be fit in time for the tie. He suffered an ankle injury ahead of the recent visit to the Bernabeu to face Real Madrid, but he returned to the bench last week as Ernesto Valverde’s side beat Las Palmas. He did not feature in that match, but his presence in the squad hints at the fact that he was fit enough to appear if needed.
Top scorer Oihan Sancet will miss the match in a major boost to Amorim. The striker, who has 17 goals and three assists in all competitions this season, is also a doubt for the second leg, having struggled with recurring hamstring issues this year.
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United prediction
Athletic will come into this match with a healthy defence and a weakened front line. United come into it with a relatively strong defence and a misfiring attack.
These factors will likely combine for a low-scoring match. If fit, Williams’ star factor will prove to be key, as will Fernandes’ for United.
While Athletic will want to secure a healthy lead heading into the second leg at Old Trafford, it will be easier said than done. A stalemate looks most likely.
Head to head (h2h) history and results
Manchester United wins: 1
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United match odds
Athletic Bilbao to win: 10/11
Manchester United to win: 11/4
Odds via Betfair (subject to change).