Manchester United are set for a high-stakes trip to Spain on Thursday as they take on Athletic Bilbao in a Europa League semi-final clash that could define their season.
Head coach Ruben Amorim offered a significant clue to his European plans by naming what appeared to be his strongest possible XI in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Bournemouth.
Many expected Amorim to field a heavily rotated side but the manager wanted to bring his players into a rhythm for the key European clash.
Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo started in the midfield pivot with Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho supporting striker Rasmus Hojlund.
We believe Amorim may field the same players against Bilbao in the first leg, forcing Manuel Ugarte to settle for a place on the bench.
The £50 million summer signing is known for his passion for defending and ball-winning instincts.
He has shown his skills by impressing with his high work-rate and intense pressing style.
However, his ability to play the ball forward and find the right attacking pass requires significant improvement.
Despite criticism, he has been an unsung hero lately.
He has two assists and a goal to his name in the last five games in all competitions.
He bagged an assist for Leny Yoro’s goal against Lyon in the first leg and then lit up the second leg with an early goal, calmly finishing from Garnacho’s clever low cross.
Amorim turned to Ugarte again around the hour mark on Sunday, bringing him on for Casemiro as United chased the game.
The Uruguay international fired a shot at goal after receiving a cross from Luke Shaw.
His strike looked destined to hit the target but Hojlund’s tap-in ensured that the Cherries’ goalkeeper had no chance to make a save.
Despite being a defensive midfielder, Ugarte has made crucial attacking contributions.
Stats from Sofascore.com & Transfermarkt.com
