Manchester United thrash Athletic Bilbao to close in on Europa League final

Manchester United are on course to reach the Europa League final after Ruben Amorim’s side blew away 10-man Athletic Bilbao 3-0 in a stunning semi-final first leg in Spain.

The Red Devils’ worst-ever Premier League campaign has meant it has long been a case of Bilbao or bust for them, with the May 21 showpiece back at the Basque outfit’s San Mames stadium.

Athletic’s dreams of winning a first European trophy on home turf appeared to go up in smoke after their fierce start to Thursday’s match was followed by a first-half implosion, with Casemiro’s opener compounded by Daniel Vivian seeing red for bringing down Rasmus Hojlund.

Bruno Fernandes scored from the spot and United’s nerveless skipper added a second before the break at a furious San Mames, where Amorim’s men now look set to return later this month to face Bodo/Glimt or, more likely, Tottenham.

The Portuguese admitted on the eve of the game that Europa League glory would not save their season, but it would secure silverware and much-needed Champions League qualification for a side sat 14th in the Premier League standings.

Athletic need a miracle in Manchester next Thursday after a night they entered with such hope and excitement ended in an excruciating loss.