Manchester United’s men’s team are still clinging to their last remaining hope of Champions League qualification.
Ruben Amorim’s side know that winning the Europa League is now the only realistic path back to Europe’s top table after a disastrous Premier League campaign.
With United languishing in 15th place, Thursday’s second leg against Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford carries massive stakes, especially after their 3-0 first-leg triumph in Spain.
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Amorim has already begun planning for next season, but European football could be the difference between a full-scale rebuild or yet another transition year.
Several senior players could see their futures reshaped by the outcome of the club’s Europa League run.
Meanwhile, Manchester United Women have already guaranteed a Champions League return next season after clinching a top-three finish in the Women’s Super League.
A dramatic 2-2 comeback draw against Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday sealed their spot with one game to spare.
It was a vital result for Marc Skinner’s side, who came back from two goals down and effectively ended City’s European hopes in the process.
The Red Devils currently sit third in the WSL, four points ahead of fourth-place City and still within touching distance of second-placed Arsenal.
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United could finish second if the Gunners slip up away to Brighton on Monday, but otherwise will enter the Champions League in the second qualifying round.
That round, known as the League Path, involves a four-team mini-tournament format, with matches scheduled for 27 and 30 August following a 16 June draw.
If Manchester United Women finish second, they’ll bypass the mini-tournaments and go straight into a two-legged third qualifying round, drawn on 1 September.
Victory in that round will book a place in the brand-new league phase of the competition, which now mirrors the men’s format.
Skinner was proud of his players but made it clear that squad depth must improve if they want to make a serious impact in Europe.
He highlighted Manchester City’s drop-off due to injuries as a warning sign and stressed that Champions League football helps attract top-level talent.
After last season’s narrow exit to PSG in the third qualifying round, United will be aiming to go one step further and make club history.
