**All Eyes on Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United: TV Details, Kick-Off and Team News for Tonight’s Europa League Semi-Final**
The Europa League reaches a crucial juncture tonight, as Manchester United head to the Basque Country to take on Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of their semi-final tie. For United, this represents not only a shot at European silverware but also the last major opportunity for manager Ruben Amorim to put his stamp on his debut season at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils reached this stage after a dramatic triumph over Lyon in the quarter-finals, scoring three goals in the final throes of extra time to snatch victory. However, the challenge presented by Athletic Bilbao is expected to be even more formidable. The Spanish side, currently riding high in La Liga and seemingly well placed to qualify for next year’s Champions League, have developed a reputation for resilience, especially in their intimidating home stadium, San Mames.
History does not appear to favour United either. Over a decade ago, these two clubs last locked horns in European competition, with Athletic Bilbao comprehensively dispatching the English giants in both legs of their last-16 encounter in 2012. Since then, the fortunes of both sides have diverged, with Ernesto Valverde’s Los Leones enjoying a period of progress while United face questions about their consistency and competitiveness on the continental stage.
For United, gaining a positive result away from home this evening will be critical to their hopes of progressing to the final. This is highlighted by their mixed record away from Old Trafford, and a lack of incisiveness in front of goal on their travels—scoring just 10 goals in their last eight away fixtures, with their most recent display being a frustrating draw against a depleted Bournemouth side. Despite remaining unbeaten away in Europe this season, United’s form remains a concern for supporters hoping for a strong away leg showing.
Kick-off at San Mames is scheduled for 8pm BST tonight, running simultaneously with the other Europa League semi-final, as Tottenham Hotspur host Norwegian outfit Bodo/Glimt. Given the stakes and the raucous atmosphere expected in Bilbao, all eyes will be on how United cope with the unique challenge posed by the Basque club, who have lost just twice in their last 45 matches at home.
For viewers in the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1. Those who prefer not to watch on television can follow radio commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live or talkSPORT. Fans wishing to stream the match online can do so via Discovery+, although a subscription is required to access this service.
On the team news front, Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde finds his squad in robust health, with only Oihan Sancet a doubt after picking up a knock last week. That leaves both Williams brothers—Nico and Inaki—available to drive Athletic’s attacking ambitions, with Maroan Sannadi also in line for a central role up front.
In contrast, Ruben Amorim faces increasing injury concerns at Manchester United. Long-term absentees Lisandro Martinez and Ayden Heaven are ruled out, while attacking duo Amad Diallo and Joshua Zirkzee remain unavailable for selection. The setback is compounded by news that right-back Diogo Dalot has suffered a calf problem and will also miss the fixture. However, there is a glimmer of hope for United, as summer signing Matthijs de Ligt is nearing a return to fitness, offering potential reinforcement to a defence already boosted by Luke Shaw’s comeback against Bournemouth.
Tonight’s clash at San Mames serves as the latest chapter in both clubs’ European journeys. Reaching the final is vital for both sides, with United under pressure to salvage their season, while Athletic aim to confirm their continental credentials.
With the Europa League trophy within touching distance, both sets of supporters will be eager to see which club takes a decisive step towards the final. The outcome of tonight’s match is likely to be pivotal—not only for progression in the tournament but also for the future direction of both teams as they strive for European glory.
Stay tuned for live updates, fan reaction, and full match coverage as the drama unfolds in Bilbao.