Manchester United’s pursuit of European glory has entered its most decisive phase yet, with all eyes now on Thursday’s second leg against Athletic Club.
Having taken a commanding 3-0 lead in Bilbao last week, Ruben Amorim’s side are within touching distance of a Europa League final, but the manager has warned his players that the job is far from done.
The opponents, led by the experienced Ernesto Valverde, are known for their resilience and will arrive at Old Trafford determined to spoil the party.
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The fixture also comes at a time when United fans are rediscovering belief, with multiple standout performers across the squad and growing momentum in the European campaign.
The importance of fan energy has been echoed repeatedly by Amorim and club captain Bruno Fernandes in recent weeks, especially during crunch fixtures under the lights in Manchester.
Now, the club is preparing for another unforgettable night — and this time, supporters will play a starring role.
A massive new tifo banner will be unveiled before kick-off on Thursday, in a bid to transform the Theatre of Dreams into a fortress once more.
The display has been designed in close collaboration between the club and fan groups, and Bruno Fernandes himself signed off on the idea earlier this week.
Positioned in front of the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, the tifo will rise dramatically from pitch to roof, flanked by vibrant pyrotechnics that promise to light up Old Trafford as the players walk out.
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It’s only the second time a tifo has ever featured at the stadium, with the first appearing before United’s dramatic quarter-final comeback against Lyon.
Midfield general Casemiro, who scored in the first leg in Spain, leads the charge into the semi-final second leg with renewed hunger and appreciation for the fans.
In Thursday’s matchday programme, the Brazilian speaks openly about the atmosphere created by the supporters this season.
“When I get home, I speak with my family about what the fans are like here,” he says.
“They push us and help us – it’s something incredible.”
As United look to book their place in Bilbao later this month, it’s clear that the fans will once again be United’s twelfth man under the lights.
