Manchester United’s 2024–25 campaign has unfolded like a split narrative. Domestically, their struggles have been painfully clear—erratic performances, tactical inconsistency, and a spot in the bottom half of the Premier League table. But in Europe, a different story has emerged. In the UEFA Europa League, United have been transformed, appearing more organized, clinical, and motivated than at any other point in the season. With Rúben Amorim at the helm, the Red Devils are now just one step away from the final—and possibly a lifeline to salvage their season.

Their Europa League semi-final first-leg performance against Athletic Bilbao was a statement. Playing away in the hostile environment of San Mamés, United stunned the hosts with a dominant 3-0 victory. Casemiro opened the scoring early on, and Bruno Fernandes followed with a brace, delivering a commanding midfield performance. The Portuguese playmaker controlled the tempo, pressed relentlessly, and created opportunities with the kind of sharpness that has been sorely lacking in the Premier League.

Amorim’s tactics were spot on. Knowing Bilbao’s aggressive style, United stayed compact, disrupted the hosts' rhythm, and struck clinically on the counter. Fernandes flourished in his more advanced role, Casemiro provided much-needed balance and leadership, and the backline, often shaky in league play, remained focused and composed throughout. It was a performance that showed not just character, but maturity.

This stark contrast between European excellence and domestic underachievement is not lost on anyone including Amorim himself. “It’s hard to explain,” he admitted in his post-match press conference. And truly, the difference is glaring. The squad that has failed to string together consistent results in England suddenly looks like a well-oiled machine under the European spotlight. The question is: why?

Part of the answer may lie in the nature of European competition. The two-legged knockout format offers clarity: a defined objective, fewer games, and different kinds of pressure. Unlike the relentless grind of the Premier League, the Europa League allows for focused preparation and a chance to reset. Amorim has taken full advantage of this structure, setting up his team with a clear identity defensively solid, tactically flexible, and mentally sharp.

Another factor is the individual resurgence of key players. Fernandes, so often overburdened in domestic matches, seems liberated in Europe. Casemiro, whose age and injuries have raised doubts, looks rejuvenated when the stakes are high. Even the often-criticized defense has improved in cohesion, with fullbacks and center-backs stepping up their responsibilities in key moments.

And then there’s Amorim. The Portuguese coach, still settling into life in Manchester, has used the Europa League as a proving ground. His adaptability, man-management, and in-game decisions have been crucial. From rotating effectively to trusting youth when necessary, he’s managed to extract performances from a team that looked devoid of confidence just months ago.

With one foot in the final and a likely showdown with fellow English side Tottenham Hotspur on the horizon, United now have the chance to end their turbulent season with silverware. More importantly, winning the Europa League would also secure Champions League qualification a financial and sporting boost the club desperately needs.

It won’t erase the frustrations of their domestic campaign, but it would mark the beginning of a turnaround under Amorim. A trophy, a European resurgence, and a clear signal that Manchester United, despite their league form, are still capable of competing at a high level when it matters most.

As the final approaches, United fans have reason to believe. If this version of Manchester United continues to show up, the Red Devils might just write the comeback story of the season.