Published on May 02, 2025
Harry Maguire has challenged his senior Manchester United teammates to remain composed and finish the job in their Europa League semi-final second leg against Athletic Bilbao. After a dominant 3-0 first-leg victory in Spain, Maguire emphasized the importance of leadership and focus as United aim to book their place in the Europa League final.
“Everyone will say it’s done, and so you’re going into the game thinking the tie’s over,” said Harry Maguire, speaking after the match. “Every scenario can happen in a game. We know they could score first, but we’ve got to remain calm. We’ve got a lot of senior players who need to step up in their moments.”
Maguire played a pivotal role in the first leg, delivering an unexpected assist for Casemiro’s opening goal a moment that led fans to dub him “Harrydinho” on social media. Bruno Fernandes followed with two goals of his own, helping Manchester United take a commanding lead into the second leg at Old Trafford.
While United have struggled domestically sitting 14th in the Premier League standings their Europa League form has been near-flawless. Under interim manager Rúben Amorim, the team has found new life in European competition, using it as a platform for redemption in an otherwise turbulent season.
Maguire acknowledged the contrast: “We’ve had a difficult year, no hiding that. But Europe has given us a chance to regroup, and now it’s about finishing the job.”
The second leg against Athletic Bilbao is scheduled for May 8, and a win or draw would secure United’s place in the 2025 Europa League final. More importantly, lifting the trophy would guarantee a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League, a crucial target for a club facing a disappointing league finish.
With Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and other senior figures leading the charge, Maguire’s call to “step up” is both a challenge and a reminder of the stakes ahead.
As Manchester United prepare for the decisive clash, the message is clear: there’s no room for complacency. The path to European silverware is open but only if the Red Devils remain focused and united.
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