The Anticipated Environment Surrounding Ruben Amorim and Bruno Fernandes
Fans of Athletic Bilbao are known for their passionate support, and a new video shared on social media gives a taste of the atmosphere expected at San Mamés for the Europa League semi-final against Manchester United.
In the clip, fans can be heard singing at the top of their lungs, showing just how overwhelming the support can be. It's clear that the Spanish club's crowd can put coaches Ruben Amorim, Bruno Fernandes (with Diogo Dalot out injured), and the rest of Manchester United's team to the test.
With the team's recent Copa del Rey victory, the excitement among fans has been building, much like it does during the traditional Gabarra river parade where fans drink, dance, and sing with fervor. However, the mood can shift quickly, as the penalty-conceded draw against Villarreal shows.
So, expect a heaving, red-and-white spectacle at the semi-final with loud chanting. The crowd will likely mirror the team’s performance, with sudden swings in emotion depending on key moments like goals or refereeing decisions. And United's players will face a relentless, partisan crowd.
Historical context and the club's fan culture suggest the environment at San Mamés will be a volatile, tribal arena. So, United had better be ready to silence the home support if they want to dominate early. Keep in mind, though, that search results don't provide direct recent commentary on the semi-final's actual atmosphere, but the passionate nature of Athletic Bilbao's supporters has never been in doubt.
Amorim, Fernandes, and the rest of Manchester United's team will be tested by the overwhelming support of Athletic Bilbao fans at San Mamés, as evidenced by a viral video showcasing their passionate singing. The crowd's fervor can swing between exhilaration and frustration, similar to the team's performance, as seen in recent games like the penalty-conceded draw against Villarreal. United must prepare for a volatile, tribal atmosphere in Bilbao, and if they want to dominate early, they'll need to silence the home support.
