The 2025 UEFA Europa League final is approaching and will be held at the Estadio San Mamés on May 21

A 3-0 defeat in Bilbao left Athletic with only a theoretical chance of reaching the final, while Manchester United took a significant step towards the title with another win, focusing all their energy on this competition and leaving the Premier League behind.

At a packed San Mamés, the hosts could have gone 2-0 up after a dangerous header from Iñaki Williams, but Victor Lindelof saved Alex Berenguer’s effort from the edge of the box. However, the game changed dramatically in the 30th minute, when Harry Maguire delivered a superb cross from the right and Casemiro headed home. Just seven minutes later, the visitors were awarded a penalty after the intervention of the video assistant referee: Dani Vivian fouled Rasmus Hojlund, for which he was sent off. Bruno Fernandes converted a flawless penalty despite the crowd whistling.

United extended their lead to 3-0 before the break thanks to Manuel Ugarte's fine finish. Ruben Amorim's side could have added to the lead in the second half when Casemiro headed in again from a corner. A fourth goal would have ended the match completely, but even a three-goal deficit will be difficult for the Spaniards to overcome in the return leg at Old Trafford. With Tottenham beating Bodø-Glimt 3-1 in the other semi-final, the likelihood of an English final has increased significantly.

United are only 14th in the Premier League, 21 points outside the top five, the zone that gives direct entry to the Champions League. However, their chances of qualifying for Europe's premier club competition via the Europa League are looking increasingly realistic thanks to their impressive performance in Bilbao. There is no reason to doubt that England will do everything in their power to reach the final, especially with key players like Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder has pulled his team out of tough situations on more than one occasion, and his confident performance once again helped United take control of the match. Currently, only Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (34) and Radamel Falcao (30) have more goals in the Europa League than Fernandes, who has scored 27 goals alongside Romelu Lukaku.

UEFA Europa League Final 2025 tickets are a unique opportunity to witness the best clubs in Europe play and get an unforgettable experience at this spectacular event.