Man United faces a challenging soulful contest against Bilbao, according to Nico Williams.
A low-key Athletic Club aims for a European glory
Fueled by the wisdom from team-mate and brother Inaki Williams, Athletic Club is stealthily marching towards the Europa League final this season. The winger, Nico Williams, urges his comrades to focus solely on the game, despite the immense excitement from the fans.
"Since the beginning, we've been keeping it low-key," Nico shares, echoing his brother's advice from last year. "The fans' excitement is incredible, but we need to remain 100% focused on the game and our duties."
The team is set to face Ruben Amorim's United at their very own San Mames Stadium on Thursday, in the first leg of the semi-finals. The return match is scheduled for the following week at Old Trafford.
In spite of United's subpar domestic performances this season, the team remains a formidable adversary, according to Nico. "United is a powerhouse renowned for its talented players like Bruno Fernandes," he adds. "The locker room is buzzing, as is the entire city and Athletic family."
Historically, Athletic Club hasn't claimed any European title, but they've managed to reach two Europa League finals, including a 2012 loss to United. Having triumphantly sealed the Copa del Rey last year, ending a 40-year trophy drought, and nabbing the Euro 2024 title with Spain, Nico believes that big games are where stars shine. "The high-pressure moments are when the great players excel," he confidently states.
Coach Ernesto Valverde cautions his players against complacency, "Whatever happens on Thursday, it will only be half-time in the tie," he warns. "You have to put up two solid performances to advance, and Thursday is the first of them. It's a vital match for the season and Athletic Club's history."
Valverde reminisces about United's memorable 1999 Champions League final triumph against Bayern Munich, stressing the unpredictability of European football. "In these competitions, a single mistake or a minute of poor play can eliminate you," he remarks. "These are do-or-die moments, and you must know how to navigate them."
While an Athletic Club versus Manchester United fixture isn't currently on the cards for the 2025 Europa League semi-finals, teams as talented as both could potentially clash in later stages. As of now, the semi-finals consist of matches between Tottenham Hotspur and Bodø/Glimt. Should Manchester United progress, an enthralling showdown between two storied European clubs would be well within reach.
Athletic Club, inspired by the Williams brothers, is aiming for a European title, specifically the Europa League, despite the excitement among fans. The semi-finals will see them face Ruben Amorim's United at the San Mames Stadium, with the return leg at Old Trafford. Although United has experienced domestic struggles this season, Nico Williams acknowledges them as a formidable opponent, noted for players like Bruno Fernandes.
Historically, Athletic Club has not won any European title, but they have reached two Europa League finals, even losing to United in 2012. With the recent Copa del Rey victory and the upcoming Euro 2024 title with Spain, Nico believes the big games present opportunities for stars to shine. Coach Valverde emphasizes the importance of focus, warning against complacency and highlighting the unpredictable nature of European football.
Valverde recalls United's 1999 Champions League final victory over Bayern Munich, emphasizing that such matches are do-or-die moments requiring keen navigation. Although an Athletic Club versus Manchester United clash is not in the 2025 Europa League semi-finals, both teams' talent could potentially lead to their meeting in later stages.
