Athletic Bilbao manager shares instant reaction to Man Utd reaching Europa League semi-final
After Manchester United’s dramatic charge into the Europa League semi-finals, the head coach of Athletic Bilbao couldn’t hold back his admiration. Speaking with a mix of respect and sincerity, he praised the Red Devils’ performance in a way that caught the attention of football fans everywhere. His words carried weight — not just as a passing remark, but as genuine recognition of a club reclaiming its rightful place on the big European stage.
Acknowledging United’s history and fighting spirit, the Bilbao boss described them as a team that belongs at this level, a sentiment reflecting their illustrious past and the relentless ambition that continues to drive them forward. It takes a lot for a rival manager to openly admire an opponent, especially one they might face soon, but Manchester United’s display made such praise impossible to withhold.
This wasn’t simply about a final scoreline. It was about passion, character, and a relentless refusal to accept defeat. Every moment on the pitch — from bold challenges to decisive goals — served as a reminder of the club’s rich tradition of rising to big European occasions. For neutral fans and opponents alike, it reaffirmed United’s status as one of the continent’s true footballing giants.
The Bilbao manager’s comments went beyond casual respect. They were a heartfelt salute to a team that embodies the grit and glory that make nights like this unforgettable. His simple statement — “They’re right where they belong” — struck a chord because it came from a place of pure footballing respect, acknowledging both United’s comeback against Lyon and the spirit that fueled it.
What made United’s achievement even more remarkable was the adversity they overcame. Trailing 4-2 in extra time, reduced to ten men, and yet still finding a way to win — that’s the kind of resilience that earns admiration across the football world. Clubs like Athletic Bilbao, built on heart and discipline, know greatness when they see it.
That kind of performance doesn’t just get noticed — it leaves a mark. There’s a certain aura that surrounds Manchester United when they’re at their determined best, and this latest European run feels like more than just progress in a tournament. It carries the sense of a club rediscovering its fearsome identity, one that could soon have rivals across Europe approaching Old Trafford with a little more caution.
