Harry Maguire has vowed that Manchester United will do everything in their power to reward their loyal fans with a Europa League trophy, following a commanding 3-0 away win over Athletic Bilbao.
Maguire: Winning Europa League Would Be the Perfect Gift for United Fans
The victory puts Ruben Amorim’s side firmly in control ahead of the second leg, leaving them with one foot in the final, where they could face Tottenham Hotspur.
Thursday night’s clash at San Mames turned dramatically when Bilbao’s Dani Vivian was sent off for pulling back Rasmus Hojlund, conceding a penalty that Bruno Fernandes coolly converted.
Fernandes struck again just before halftime, with United quickly stretching their lead to three.
The Red Devils stayed on in the Basque Country for Friday’s training before returning home to prepare for Sunday’s Premier League trip to Brentford.
Despite their Europa League surge, Maguire was honest about the season’s struggles.
“It’s been a bit of a mess in the middle of the season,” the United captain admitted.
“We didn’t handle the transition well enough as players, moving between managers. But football is about creating memories and winning trophies.
We have a great opportunity now, and for our fans — for what they’ve stuck with us through — they deserve that.”
Amorim, too, has been clear that Europa League success alone won’t erase a disappointing domestic campaign, but finishing on a high could be vital for rebuilding confidence heading into next season.
Reports suggest United are already planning summer targets, with Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, and Manchester City’s Liam Delap all linked to boost their attacking options.
United’s preparation for a potential final looks smoother compared to likely opponents Spurs.
While Tottenham face Aston Villa late on the Sunday before the final, United’s last league game is a Friday night clash against Chelsea, giving them over 40 hours of extra rest — a detail that could prove crucial in a tight European showdown.
For now, though, Maguire and his teammates are fully focused on finishing the job against Bilbao and bringing home silverware.
“It’s been a disappointing season, but we can still give our supporters something special,” Maguire said, his determination clear. “We’re all in.”
