It’s been far from a comfortable hour of play for Manchester United in the second leg of their Europa League semi-final tonight.
The Red Devils hold a two-goal advantage heading into the final stages of the tie after conceding a 31st-minute goal from Mikel Jauregizar, giving Athletic Club just enough incentive to pick up the pace and try to overturn their deficit.
Ernesto Valverde’s men have enjoyed slightly more possession (52 per cent to the Reds’ 48 per cent) along with twice as many shots (eight) as United.
Yet, as things stand, and if they fail to overly trouble the backline or Andre Onana before the full-time whistle, United will be progressing to the final.
Leny Yoro hailed for top-drawer display
You’d struggle to cherry-pick a player who’s hugely covered themself in glory thus far. However, Leny Yoro has again put in a stellar shift, looking mature beyond his years alongside his senior counterparts in defence.
In the first 45 minutes, the 19-year-old won 100 per cent of his tackles attempted and had an 88 per cent pass accuracy. He made five ball recoveries, three clearances, won three fouls and made two passes into the final third, prompting StatmanDave to hail how he ‘always looks in control’.
Yoro has become an integral piece of Ruben Amorim’s puzzle
Back in July 2024, United shelled out a whopping £52.1 million to sign Yoro from Lille while also pledging an additional £6.7m in add-ons.
He had garnered interest from a host of top European sides, including Real Madrid, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, yet proceeded to put pen to paper on a five-year deal in M16 plus the option of an additional season.
After a lengthy injury setback ruled him out of the first quarter of the season, Yoro was unavailable for Erik ten Hag’s final months at the club. He made his debut under Ruben Amorim in December and has since played an integral role at the heart of the squad, and will for years to come.
