Athletic Club suffer huge blow ahead of Man Utd Europa League clash

Spanish giant Athletic Club have been dealt a huge injury blow ahead of their Europa League semi-final first-leg tie against Manchester United.

While Bilbao have enjoyed a successful 2024/25 season, Manchester United have failed to impress in the Premier League. Ruben Amorim’s side are languishing in 14th position and all focus have been shifted to the Europa League.

Winning the Europa League will salvage an otherwise dismal season for Man United as automatic qualification for the Champions League is secured.

United have now received a huge boost after their Spanish opponent suffered an injury blow. Athletic midfielder Oihan Sancet came off injured after 22 minutes during Wednesday’s 1-0 win over Las Palmas in LaLiga.

Oihan Sancet celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the LaLiga match between Athletic Club and Real Valladolid (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

The 24-year-old has been a key player for Athletic Club this season with 17 goals and three assists across all competitions. Whether he will be fit for the clash against United remains unclear.

When asked post-match about Sancet’s injury, manager Valverde said: “We hope it’s not too serious. It’s something muscular, but we have to wait for the tests tomorrow.”

On his team’s current form ahead of the showdown against United, he added, “The team is looking good, we’re in good shape. This is what we wanted, and we’re confident.”

Athletic Club will now get a week off to prepare for the clash against Amorim’s men on Thursday, May 1. United, however, will have to navigate a trip to Bournemouth first on Sunday (2pm kick-off).