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      Man Utd and Spurs on course for £100m winner-takes-all Europa League final despite two of their worst seasons ever

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      UNDER-FIRE Ruben Amorim and Ange Postecoglou are on course for a winner-takes-all Europa League final showdown.Amorim masterminded Manchester United’s 3-0 semi-final first leg demolition of ten-man Athletic Bilbao in Spain.Ruben Amorim guided Manchester United to a 3-0 win over Athletic BilbaoCredit: AFPAnge Postecoglou’s Tottenham side beat Bodo/GlimtCredit: APAnd Postecoglou guided his Tottenham team to a 3-1 triumph over Bodo/Glimt in the other to set up a likely all-English final in Bilbao on May 21.United hero Harry Maguire said: “It’s a great result, three goals and a clean sheet. Everyone will expect us to go through. We have one foot in the final but it’s still not done.“We will be ready for the return at Old Trafford next Thursday.“We looked a little nervous in the first 20 minutes, but we were clinical in that first half.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“We also had chances to get the fourth but it’s a great victory in the end.”United legend Rio Ferdinand added: “It’s a dream scenario, a mature performance. But it was through sheer hard work and capitalising on mistakes and the red card.”And fellow former Red Devil Paul Scholes beamed: “Amazing result. The sending off aided the picture. We all thought it would be a really tough game, but it was comfortable against 10 men.”United and Spurs have both suffered a disastrous domestic season, languishing 14th and 16th respectively in the Prem.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut victory in the Europa final will guarantee the winners Champions League football and a possible £100million windfall.Casemiro headed United in front after centre-half Harry Maguire turned into a wonder WINGER to provide the cross.Ruben Amorim warns Rasmus Hojlund ‘he has to score many more’ goals after dramatic last gasp Man Utd equaliserSkipper Bruno Fernandes then put United 2-0 up from the spot after ref Espen Eskås awarded a penalty.The Norwegian official also showed Dani Vivian a straight red card following a VAR review after Rasmus Hojlund had been hauled back in the box.Fernandes bagged his second and United’s third before the break to put the Red Devils on the brink of saving their season.At the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Brennan Johnson headed Spurs in front after just 38 SECONDS.James Maddison bagged No.2, Dominic Solanke added the third from the spot following a foul on Cristian Romero before the Norwegians bagged a late consolation goal through Ulrik Saltnes.Bruno Fernandes was once again the main man for Man UtdCredit: AlamyJames Maddison gets the congrats after putting Spurs 2-0 upCredit: AlamyBrennan Johnson said: “We are pleased. If someone said we’d have a two-goal cushion, we’d be happy with it.“We’re disappointed to concede at the end but happy overall.“Getting an early goal really set the tempo.”A United-Spurs final would be the FIFTH all-English European showpiece.Read More on The SunTottenham were beaten 2-0 by Liverpool in the 2019 Champions League final, while Chelsea beat Arsenal 4-1 in the Europa League final in the same year.United beat Chelsea in the 2008 Champions League final and Spurs KO’d Wolves to win the 1972 Uefa Cup. More

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      Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd LIVE RESULT: United with one foot in Europa League final after thrashing ten-men Spaniards

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have firmly put one foot in the Europa League final after tearing Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of their thrilling semis.Casemiro nodded the visitors in front off the back of some Lamine Yamal-esque sily skills on the wing from Harry Maguire.Things then went from bad to worse for the hosts as Dani Vivian pulled Rasmus Hojlund down in the box which led to a red card and a coolly dispatched Bruno Fernandes penalty.And Fernandes then grabbed his second and United’s third of the night to give them a commanding lead to take back to Old Trafford next week.RESULT: Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Man UtdCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…United roll back the yearsAthletic Bilbao may claim that they will head to England next week with the belief they can turn this tie around, but history is not on their side.In fact, of the 133 teams to have won the first leg of a UEFA Cup/Europa League knockout stage tie by 3+ goals away from home, every single one has gone on to progress.Tonight’s 3-0 win at San Mames was also Manchester United’s biggest away win in a semi-final of a major European competition.And in scoring three first half goals, the Red Devils did so in a European knockout away game for the first time since a European Cup quarter-final at Benfica in 1966 when George Best (2) and John Connelly were on target for Matt Busby’s team.Copy linkCopiedAthletic will travel with confidenceThe Europa League semi-final between Manchester United and Athletic Bilbao is not yet over, according to one of the Spanish side’s defenders.Yeray Alvarez insists that the Basque outfit will travel to Old Trafford full of hope, and with the upmost confidence that they can stage a comeback.It’s been a hard blow, we came in with spirits high. But we still have 90 minutes left, we have confidence, and we need to go there to make the comeback and try to turn it around. The word ‘confidence’ is what we need to focus on, and go there with the greatest of hopes.Yeray AlvarezUefa.comCopy linkCopiedBruno delivers two more knockout blowsWith his two strikes in Bilbao this evening, Bruno Fernandes took his goal involvements total to an astonishing 35 in all competitions this season (19 goals and 16 assists).Only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (56) has been directly involved in more goals for a Premier League side in all competitions this campaign.Copy linkCopiedOn the United agendaDespite a significant first leg lead, Ruben Amorim has already indicated that he will manage his squad’s playing minutes ahead of next Thursday’s return tie with Athletic Bilbao.That’s likely to mean fringe players get game time against Brentford in the Premier League on Sunday, while it would not be a surprise to see the Portuguese coach rotate his first team in the remaining games before the Europa League final back in Bilbao in three weeks. Copy linkCopiedMaguire magic sparks memorable nightA historic night for Manchester United may be best remembered for the scintillating wingplay from Harry Maguire in the build-up to Casemiro’s opening goal.The defender left Mikel Jaureguizar for dead twice before delivering a fine cross that was eventually turned into, prompting social media users to coin him Maguire-dinho.Afterwards, Ruben Amorim laughed and said: “He’s a good winger. There are moments in our lives, and Harry has had difficult moments, but now everything he does is good for the team so he has to enjoy this.” Copy linkCopiedAmorim warns against complacencyManchester United boss Ruben Amorim insisted that his players still have work to do in next week’s second leg despite their impressive showing in Bilbao.And the Portuguese coach was also quick to point out that first leg in San Mames essentially turned on one moment – the sending off of Dani Vivian – and something similar could occur at Old Trafford if they took their eye of the ball.The result is really good, but we have to understand the result at the same time. We struggled a lot at the beginning and the sending off changed the game. Any game can change with one situation. We had an opportunity to score one more. This is not done and they can do the same at Old Trafford.Ruben AmorimTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedMaguire: We’ve one foot in the finalManchester United’s wing wizard Harry Maguire believes his side have done the hard work and have one foot in the Europa League final.The defender set up the opening goal with some marvellous play on the right flank, and afterwards spoke about a great performance and result.However, the 32-year-old was quick to state that they’ll need more of the same next week to see the job through.It was a clinical first half, and professional second half. It’s a great victory in the end but we’ve another big game next week. All the pressure is on us now, and everyone will expect us to get into the final. So next Thursday we need to make sure we prepare like we’ve done in this game, and if we do we give ourselves a great opportunity to make the final. It’s been a great night for us, we’ve one foot in the final but it’s still not done.Harry MaguireTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from San MamesCopy linkCopiedAn all English final awaits?The Premier League taking over Bilbao later this month looks a distinct possibility.Not only did United win convincingly here this evening, Spurs also registered a first leg advantage.The only downside for the Londoners was an 83rd-minute Bodo Glimt goal that offers the Norwegian some hope ahead of the second leg.Europa League semi-final, first leg results:Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Man UtdTottenham 3-1 Bodo GlimtCopy linkCopiedFull time – Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Man UtdA result beyond Manchester United dreams.The English giants would have been happy heading back to Old Trafford on level terms, but instead they’ll take a three-goal advantage into next week’s second leg – a leg attached to the one foot already in the final.A trio of goals – two from Bruno Fernandes including a penalty – in a barmy 15-minute first half spell has the Red Devils in charge.Barring a miracle or a disaster, United will be back in three weeks’ time for the Europa League showpiece.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd90+4. With the last kick of the game, Alvaro Djalo thumps a 30-yard free-kick straight at Onana.The United keeper is no stranger to a mistake, but does his job to preserve a clean sheet and his side’s dominant lead in the tie.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd90. Manchester United are four minutes of stoppage time away from an excellent night’s work.Gomez tries to get Athletic on the scoresheet ahead of the return but his header is high and wide of Onana’s goal.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd89. It’s keep ball for Ruben Amorim’s team now.That said, you do get the impression that Bruno Fernandes wants his hat-trick.The United captain is the only look still looking to push forward when he gets on the ball.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd87. United are seeing this one through to its conclusion.The visitors have had 70% of the ball tonight, and twice as many attempts and attacks as Athletic Bilbao.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd84. Ruben Amorim spoke about getting minutes in the legs of some his squad players, and that’s exactly what he’s doing.Kobbie Mainoo is on, and so too is Amad Diallo for his first appearance since February 7th.Alejandro Garnacho and Patrick Dorgu make way.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd82. Agirrezabala has made a couple of reflex stops to retain any slim hope that the La Liga outfit still had.Bilbao’s stand-in goalkeeper has denied both Garnacho and Fernandes in the last couple of minutes.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd80. With ten minutes remaining, it’s already looking like an all-English Europa League final – and that’s with another leg to go.Not only are United cruising 3-0 here, Spurs lead by the same scoreline at home to Bodo Glimt.Copy linkCopiedFrom Martin Blackburn in BilbaoAthletic coach Ernesto Valverde was the Barcelona coach when they threw away a 3-0 lead at Anfield six years ago.So he knows from personal experience that miracles can happen.But the task facing his team from here is even bigger than the one Liverpool managed that night. United could have added to their three goals but Casemiro sent a header against the post.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd77. Mason Mount is penalised for a trip on Maroan Sannadi.The substitute avoids a booking, but Bruno Fernandes is yellow carded, I think, for kicking the ball away.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd74. Luke Shaw is on for a slice of the action.It’s a straight swap with the wing-back replacing Noussair Mazraoui on the left.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd72. Athletic continue to look for Nico Williams as a first option when retrieving possession, but it hasn’t clicked tonight.In fact, we’ve seen very little of the Spanish international.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd69. Somebody just described Mason Mount as looking like an old American actor playing Mason Mount in a film adaptation, and I can’t stop thinking about it.It’s spot on.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd67. United are playing this well, and are continuing to find space when they choose to counter.Garnacho finds room in the box to strike at goal, only for Paredes get across to bravely block.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd65. Harry Maguire is still the focus of home displeasure after his involvement in that tangle with Maroan Sannadi.And with that in mind, Ruben Amorim moves to replace the centre-back.The returning Matthijs De Ligt is on in is place while Mason Mount takes over from Manuel Ugarte.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd63. Who said Casemiro’s legs have gone?The Brazilian has been excellent tonight, rolling back the years with his midfield dominance.In fact, he goes close to adding his second of night with a looping effort that clips off the bar.Copy linkCopied More

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      Tottenham 3 Bodo/Glimt 1: Spurs need just 38 seconds to dismantle Norweigan opponents… but still manage late blow

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      AFTER a season presiding over embarrassment after embarrassment, Ange Postecoglou looked to have got his tactics spot on when it mattered most.His three bold selection calls were all involved as Brennan Johnson put Spurs in front after just 38 seconds.It took less than a minute for Brennan Johnson to break the deadlockCredit: GettyJames Maddison made it two in the 34th minuteCredit: GettyThen James Maddison’s scuffed shot and a Dominic Solanke penalty looked to have put Spurs on the brink of only their second major European final in 40 years.They may well still get there – but a late strike from Bodo captain Ulrik Saltnes punctured the party atmosphere.And with Glimt famously freezing out numerous European heavyweights this season on their plastic pitch in the Arctic Circle, no Spurs fan will believe this tie is over.As ever for Postecoglou in his trying second campaign, nothing comes easy.READ MORE ON TOTTENHAMWhile he will be sweating on the fitness of Richarlison, Maddison and Solanke, who all came off here and looked like they could be carrying injuries.But the under-pressure Aussie can take heart from the fact that his side are still in a fantastic position to reach the showpiece of this competition for the first time since they won it in 1984.And for all the justified flak that has come his way for the team’s horrendous league campaign, the 59-year-old deserves huge credit for putting them there.He did it too despite his team being rocked by a last-minute ankle injury to their own Scandinavian success story, Lucas Bergvall.Most read in Europa LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt saw the shock inclusion of Yves Bissouma in the starting XI, despite the Malian plummeting down the midfield pecking order in recent months.Bergvall’s compatriot Dejan Kulusevski, Spurs’ best player in the first half of the season, was also surprisingly left on the bench.Spurs-mad Viddal Riley out for North London bragging rights against Arsenal fan Chev Clark after aiming Declan Rice digInstead, Johnson was on the right and Richarlison started on the left wing for the first time since Spurs won at Crystal Palace in October 2023.That was the final match of Postecoglou’s blistering, ten-game unbeaten start to his tenure which saw the team go five points clear at the top of the Premier League.Back then, anything seemed possible under the Aussie.But Spurs have fallen to 16th after NINETEEN Prem defeats this term, leaving the Europa League as their only chance to save their season and, quite possibly, Postecoglou’s job.Fans who attended the game seemed well aware of how fragile their team have been, and so gave their most raucous backing in months to get the ground rocking before kick-off.Flags were waved furiously and every home player’s name belted out in the stands.The bouncing atmosphere had its desired effect almost instantly – as jet-heeled Johnson broke the deadlock.And it was a goal that involved all three of Postecoglou’s bold selection calls.Bissouma won the ball off dithering Ole Didrik Blomberg and gave it to Pedro Porro, who swung in a cross which Richarlison headed back across the six-yard box.Cristian Romero won a penalty after being kicked in the calf by Fredrik SjovoldCredit: GettyDominic Solanke calmly converted the spot kickCredit: AlamyThere to meet it was Johnson, starting over Kulusevski on the right, to nod into the net.It sent the stadium potty – and Postecoglou punched the air with both fists in celebration.Spurs were taking a different tack for the second successive European game, after the defensive, low-risk approach that saw them through against Eintracht Frankfurt in the quarters.Here they were happy to cede possession to Bodo and look to hit them on the break.It left you wondering why they had not tried it more often this term.But that was by the by, what mattered was that they were doing it here and it was working.On 34 minutes, it was 2-0 as Spurs went back to front in devastating fashion.Rodrigo Bentancur just about kept hold of the ball on the touchline, allowing the Spurs backline to recycle the ball from a tight spot.Guglielmo Vicario set away with Porro, who hit a laser-guided ball over the top where Maddison had timed a run to perfection.The England man, playing in front of the watching Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel, controlled the lofted ball superbly with a super first touch.His second was more of a scuff of a shot which managed to evade Bodo’s desperate defenders and roll in.Just before the hour, Spurs had a spot-kick thanks to VAR which had spotted Cristian Romero being caught by a Fredrik Sjovold kick as they contested a high ball.Solanke did the business, just as he did in Frankfurt, with a stuttered run-up and ice-cool finish.The scorer then came off with what looked like a suspected injury, worryingly after Richarlison and Maddison had done the same.Read More on The SunOne more goal would have killed off Bodo completely – but instead it was the visitors who struck as a shot from skipper Saltnes looped up off Bentancur.Now for the nerves in Norway next week.Ulrik Saltnes got one back for the visitors late in the matchCredit: AFP More

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      Athletic Bilbao 0 Man Utd 3: United on verge of final after thrashing Spaniards following controversial red card

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      MAYBE Manchester United fans could just stay in Bilbao for a few of weeks rather than fly home tomorrow.  Because – barring a miracle – their team will be back in the Basque country in just 19 days’ time for the final.Bruno Fernandes scored twice as Manchester United put one foot in the Europa League finalCredit: ReutersAnd if they do lift the trophy on May 21 and secure their lucrative pass through to next season’s Champions League, nobody will deserve it more than Bruno Fernandes.Two goals here during a first half of astonishing drama and another captain’s performance from him.Just where would they be without the Portugal international? Time and time again, he steps up when they need him most.  He was the coolest man in the San Mames Stadium – which was a cauldron before kick-off and threatened to boil over at times.READ MORE ON MAN UTDNothing will top the quarter-final victory over Lyon for excitement – yet the end of the opening half here took some believing.United weathered an early storm from the home team and struck three times in the space of 15 minutes – as Bilbao went down to ten men.Athletic have the meanest defence in Spain and have not lost a game at home in months – so this was completely out of the blue.There was an early warning for the home side as Alejandro Garnacho raced clear and had the ball in the net early but was denied by the offside flag.Most read in Europa LeagueJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordCasemiro headed in at the back post for the openerCredit: GettyHowever, for the next 25 minutes, the game went as expected – with United under the pump amid the deafening noise.  Alex Berenguer was given too much space and went for the bottom corner but was denied by Andre Onana.Man Utd fans celebrate outside Old Trafford after leaving Lyon game early Yuri Berchiche headed wide from the resulting corner while Inaki Williams nodded a lovely cross by Berenguer over the bar.Inaki’s cross was not cleared by Victor Lindelof but luckily the Swede was there to block Berenguer’s effort.It had been all Bilbao but on the half hour, United took the lead with their first effort of note.Harry Maguire somehow popped up on the right wing and did superbly to get to the byline and whip over a cross.Manuel Ugarte flicked it on and there was Casemiro to nod in at the back post.The veteran Brazilian has won the Champions League five times but it was obvious this meant a lot to him after a tough last year at Old Trafford.But what about the contribution of Maguire – United’s last-gasp hero in the quarter-final win over Lyon.The England centre-half was used as a makeshift forward that night – now he was doing his bit as a tricky winger.It was a bonus for the visitors but the whole tie turned on a huge moment just a couple of minutes later.Rasmus Hojlund looked to have wasted a golden chance as he failed to get on the end of a Noussair Mazrouai cross.But the VAR had spotted a tug on the Danish forward and after a long check, Norwegian ref Espen Eskas agreed.He showed defender Dani Vivian a red card and Fernandes was the coolest man in the stadium as he sent Julen Agirrezabala the wrong way.The San Mames was seething with the decision – while their team were falling apart before their eyes.Ernesto Valverde made a double change to try to reorganise his team but it didn’t work.Right before half-time, Ugarte’s backheel sent Fernandes clear and once again the skipper held his nerve to lift the ball over the home keeper.Now the stadium was stunned as their dream of playing in the final was in ruins.  It could even have got worse for them as Mazrouai took a swing from the edge of the box and saw it come back off the bar.This – don’t forget – was the team with the best defence in Spain this season – a team who have conceded the fewest goals at home in the top five leagues in Europe.And United – who have lost 15 times in the Prem this season – had run riot in a 15-minute period that was almost impossible to believe.Valverde was the Barcelona coach when they threw away a 3-0 first-leg lead at Anfield six years ago.Now his own team had an even bigger mountain to climb than Liverpool did in that famous semi-final.The home crowd were at boiling point over the sending off and it only got worse after the break.Rasmus Hojlund won a penalty when Dani Vivian pulled the striker backCredit: TNT SportsFernandes rolled home his penaltyCredit: GettyThey wanted Maguire sent off when he pulled down Maroan Sannadi but replays showed the United man had his shirt tugged first.And it was United who looked more likely to extend their lead with Casemiro seeing a shot tipped over.Read More on The SunFrom the resulting corner taken by Fernandes, the former Real Madrid man sent a header against the outside of the post.Meanwhile, the home team and their fans looked completely heartbroken. Surely their dream of hosting and playing in a final is over.The skipper made it 3-0 before the breakCredit: AFP More

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      Watch Harry Maguire turn into Lamine Yamal as he humiliates Athletic Bilbao defender to set up Man Utd goal

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      HARRY MAGUIRE channelled his inner Lamine Yamal to set up Manchester United’s opening goal against Athletic Bilbao.The centre-back defied his cumbersome frame as he found himself on the right wing in Spain.Harry Maguire produced a magic moment for Manchester UnitedCredit: APThe makeshift winger showed brilliant feetCredit: GettyHe turned his defender inside and out before delivering the perfect crossAnd just like Yamal 24 hours earlier, he produced his own moment of magic.Maguire jinxed inside and out and inside and back out again, showing genius quick feet and bamboozling his humiliated marker.The £85million man – who scored a dramatic winner in the quarter-final as a makeshift striker – justified his lofty price tag by then delivering an inch-perfect cross.Manuel Ugarte flicked it on and Casemiro had a free header at the back post to break the deadlock in northern Spain.READ MORE ON MAN UTDTNT Sports commentator Darren Fletcher joked Maguire had been watching 17-year-old Barcelona sensation Yamal yesterday as he tore Inter Milan’s defenders apart.Fletcher said: “Maguire… not the most orthodox of right wingers but he’s done well over there.”In fact, he’s going to have another go. Why not beat him twice when you can?”It’s a great cross… it’s a great chance… it’s 1-0 to Manchester United.Most read in Europa LeagueJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford”It’s finished off quite brilliantly by Casemiro but what about the twisting and turning from Harry Maguire?”He’s been watching Lamine Yamal last night.”Luke Littler and AngryGinge lose their heads on live stream after predicting Harry Maguire would score Man Utd winnerRobbie Savage was losing his voice after the “magnificent play” while Rio Ferdinand joked he will need to “renegotiate his contract as an attacking player”.A delighted Maguire could not hide his beaming smile during the celebrations. And United fans flooded social media with brilliant comments in response to the stunning piece of skill from their unlikely wide man.One said: “Yamal who? Nico who? Sir Harry Maguire.”Another wrote: “Harry Maguire is our Best CB, RWB, and ST. What a player!”A third added: “Harry Maguire really watched Lamine Yamal last night and said, ‘Watch this.'”A fourth typed: “Lamine Yamal has posters of Harry Maguire on his walls…”A fifth commented: “Lamine Yamal wakes up every single day thinking about how he can be more like Harry Maguire. Icon.”And a final user replied: “Harry Maguire is better than Lamine Yamal.”By half-time, United led by three and were a man up before Maguire escaped going from hero to zero despite pulling back Maroan Sannadi as the last defender.Read More on The SunMaguire was taken off shortly after as United held on for a 3-0 win.Maybe Ruben Amorim was saving his star attacking threat for the second leg and a likely final back at the San Mames on May 21. Casemiro headed in at the back post to break the deadlockCredit: GettyLamine Yamal put on a masterclass against InterCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd files: Berrada grilled by staff at Carrington and Sir Alex Ferguson and Gary Neville clash… in an auction

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      UNITED teen target Franco Mastantuono added to his glistening reputation with another stunning goal in Argentina’s biggest game.SunSport revealed how United are considering triggering the 17-year-old’s £38million release clause from River Plate.Man Utd target Franco Mastantuono impressed for River Plate last weekCredit: GettyAnd Old Trafford fans already excited about the prospect saw further evidence as he unleashed a brilliant free-kick from outside the box in the Buenos Aires derby with Boca Juniors.Mastantuono has been dubbed the “Argentine Phil Foden” with River Plate steeling themselves to lose him.But there was more than an echo of Lionel Messi as his left footer swept over the Boca wall and aeced into the top corner for the opener in a 2-1 win.No wonder United are interested but so are Manchester City and both Madrid giants.’REALLY NOT GOOD’THERE has been fury behind the scenes at United’s Carrington training ground – with chief executive Omar Berrada in the line of fire this week.Berrada turned up at the complex to tell staff who would be part of the second wave of 200 redundancies of their fates.Omar Berrada got a grilling from Man Utd staff members at CarringtonCredit: GettyBut it turned into a grilling for the former City exec as disgruntled staff lined up to have their say.One insider told Sun Sport: “Everything has changed since Ineos came in – and not for the better.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford“Berrada stood in front of everybody at the academy and said we had to do it.“But someone stood up and told him ‘you said six months ago that we had to lose 250 jobs but this would be it.Ruben Amorim warns Rasmus Hojlund ‘he has to score many more’ goals after dramatic last gasp Man Utd equaliser“Now six months later we’re losing another 200 people. What’s to say in six months’ time it won’t be happening again?’”“A couple of months ago we got the email about lunches being ended and Berrarda told us it would save £1m a year.“But someone piped up ‘hang on a minute – that’s one month’s wages for Casemiro; you’re on £4m a year, so why don’t you take a £1m cut?’“The mood is really not good. It’s got to the point where people are choosing not to go to the training ground unless they have to be there.”HE’S A KEEPERTOM HEATON is not planning to retire in 2025 as Man Utd are set to offer the keeper a new 12-month contract.Rumours started last month that the 39-year-old was not only ready to leave Old Trafford when his current deal expires this summer – but also hang up his gloves.Tom Heaton is set to be handed a new contractCredit: AlamyBut SunSport understands Heaton has no intentions of quitting the sport just yet.The three-cap England stopper is hopeful of a fresh Red Devils contract with talks expected to ramp up between now and the end of the season.Heaton is third choice behind Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir and in Ruben Amorim’s travelling squad for tonight’s crunch Europa League semi-final first leg away to Athletic Bilbao in Spain.With United’s top two keepers Onana and Bayindir making high-profile errors this season to put their futures in doubt, it remains to be seen if Heaton will get a chance to make his first appearance of the season before the campaign ends.Highly-popular Heaton has not played for United’s first team since a run-out against Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup back in February 2023.All eyes for Amorim’s men are on the Europa League with the aim of winning the competition to book a Champions League spot next season.So could Heaton get some minutes in one of the remaining Prem fixtures against Brentford, West Ham, Chelsea or ex-club Aston Villa?ROO WHAT?!NOT for the first time, Man City hearts were broken by Rooney this week.Only this time it was Wayne’s son Kai scoring a dramatic late winner against the ‘noisy neighbours’.United’s Under 15s were 3-0 down with 12 minutes to go at City’s Joie Stadium but came back to edge it 4-3.Amid such drama, you might have known it would be a Rooney grabbing the headlines by scoring in the 96th minute to secure the Under-15 Premier League Floodlit North Cup.ROOM FOR ONE MORE?UNITED fans have been enjoying the sunshine in Bilbao this week and will no doubt fancy returning to the Spanish city in three weeks for the final.But they’d better start saving up now.Fans enjoyed their time in Bilbao ahead of United’s Europa League semi-finalCredit: ReutersFans in one hotel paid around £130 a night this week but were told that it will cost £800 a night to stay there for the final on May 21.It would be a dream for Athletic Bilbao to reach the final which will be played in their own San Mames Stadium.But at those prices, no doubt the hotel owners are secretly hoping it will be United who are back here later in the month.BEE READYRUBEN AMORIM took a larger squad than normal to Bilbao this week – with one eye on Sunday’s trip to Brentford.The United boss has already indicated he plans to make wholesale changes for the clash with Thomas Frank’s side as he prioritises the Europa League.Ruben Amorim took several young players to Bilbao to prepare for Sunday’s Prem match against BrentfordCredit: AlamyAnd due to the late kick off in Bilbao, the squad will stay in Spain on Thursday night and hold a training session here on Friday before flying home.Several youngsters who were on the flight will not feature in the first leg in the San Mames.However they will be put through their paces by the manager in Friday’s session with a view to playing against the Bees – giving the first teamers a chance to put their feet up.WELL I NEV-ERFORMER United skipper Gary Neville clashed with his old boss Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford last week.But it was all good natured – as he pair went head to head in an auction for a painting of club legend Denis Law.Sir Alex Ferguson went head-to-head with ex-player Gary Neville for a painting in a club auctionCredit: Times Newspapers LtdNeville edged out Sir Alex to secure the Stewart Beckett artwork at a function to mark the 40th anniversary of the Association of Former Manchester United Players (AFMUP).The organisation’s future was thrown into doubt when Jim Ratcliffe slashed the funding as part of his cost cutting.However United threw their full support behind the event and donated several items which helped raise important funds.Neville, Andy Cole and Jonny Evans shared some stories of Fergie’s infamous ‘hairdryer’ with guests at the function.FINE LINEATHLETIC BILBAO have got heavy with their own fans ahead of this game – warning them they could be hit with a £25,000 fine if they re-sell tickets for the clash with United.The club is determined to make the most of their first meeting in 13 years though – with the club shop selling official half-and-half scarves.Athletic Bilbao fans could face a huge punishment if they re-sell ticketsCredit: Getty More

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      Why are Man Utd wearing a different shorts for their Europa League semi-final clash against Athletic Bilbao?

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are set to face Athletic Bilbao in a thrilling Europa League semi-final first leg TONIGHT – and the Red Devils will be dressed slightly different than usual.Ruben Amorim’s men are currently 14th in the Premier League and stand no chance of securing an all-important top-five position.Manchester United are wearing their blue strip tonight with a twistCredit: APMeaning that their one chance of qualifying for next season’s Champions League and securing silverware rests on winning the Europa League.And it seems almost unthinkable that after such a disastrous campaign, they’re in with a real shout of lifting a European trophy.But if they are to do it, they’ll need to overcome Bilbao tonight and they’ll have to do it in a change strip.Why are Man Utd wearing different shorts?Manchester United are wearing their blue changed shirt in order to avoid a clash with the red and white stripes of the host Bilbao.Read more on Man UtdHowever, they will not be using the same-coloured shorts, as they have previously away to Southampton, Arsenal (twice), Nottingham Forest and Lyon.For the Europa League semi-final first leg,United will be wearing shorts that are officially ‘clear onyx’ in colour, for the first time this season.Amorim’s side have worn the socks previously, against Forest at The City Ground, with the silver feel to them.The preference is for the Reds to wear a different contrast in shorts to the opposition, for instance lighter rather than darker, and Athletic Club wear black ones.Most read in Europa LeagueWhat time does Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd kick off?Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd will get underway at 8pm BSTSan Mames is the chosen venue for this huge Europa League first leg and it can host approximately 53,289.United and Bilbao last met in 2012 and the Spaniards got the better of the Red Devils. More

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      Tottenham vs Bodo/Glimt LIVE SCORE: Europa League semi-final updates as last-8 hero Saltnes narrows Lillywhites lead

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      TOTTENHAM hold comfortable lead against Bodo/Glimt despite having lead narrowed in the closing stages in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final. The Norwegian champions entered the contest with a depleted squad as several key players are missing the trip due to suspension or injury.Spurs, who are unbeaten in their last 14 Europa League matches at home, were headed into the lead as fellow winger Richarlison flicked the ball into Brennan Johnson path to tuck away inside the opening 40 seconds. Following a period of superiority, Pedro Porro’s looping ball would bypass the Glimt backline and locate James Maddison, who would take it down and finish with the utmost composure. Striker Dominic Solanke would add a third after the referee adjudged Cristian Romero to be clipped by the ankle in a knee-high challenge for the ball. Ulrik Saltnes, who scored the brace to aid Bodo’s progression to this stage, showed a clean set of feet before bending his strike with aid of a deflection to narrow Spurs’ lead. Full-time result: Spurs 3-1 Bodo/GlimtCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Spurs dominate huge occasionThe atmosphere outside the stadium hours before kick-off really showed how much this meant to the Tottenham fans.A semi-final in Europe does not come along every day after all.Tottenham played the perfect game as they dominated from start to finish but the one blemish on their resume would be conceding a goal during one of their best periods of the match.Copy linkCopiedNorway Spurs can let this goTottenham have themselves in a great position heading into the second-leg with a two-goal lead.They will be the favourites to progress to the final to meet the winners of Man Utd and Athletic Club.The competition offers Postecoglou’s side a chance to secure Champions League football next season, something their league position is nowhere near being able to offer.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedBoss hoping niggles not an issueFor most Tottenham fans, it would have been a real concern seeing both James Maddison and Dominic Solanke come off injured.They need both of these attacking threats for the trip to Norway if they hope on progressing to the final.After the match, Ange Postecoglou told TNT Sports that these were just niggles and he was being safe by deciding to rotate his squad.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAussie having reason to smileIt has been a tough campaign for Ange Postecoglou, often having to field very awkward questions with the media.The manager always said that he wins trophies in his second season with clubs and this may be no different in North London.Seeing his team get into a three-goal lead, the manager seemed very pleased with their showing in this first-leg of the Europa League semi-final.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSouth American puts in shift for LillywhitesRodrigo Bentancur covered a lot of ground for Tottenham tonight.Often doing the work that goes unnoticed, the Uruguayan was integral to the win in the capital.It will smart having seen the visitors’ goal deflect off him and beat his own keeper but he will no doubt use that as motivation in his performance in Norway next week.Copy linkCopiedTottenham show focus to tacticsAfter the game the players spoke about how they had identified that this Bodo/Glimt side tend to grow into games and they planned to get straight at them.They played out their manager’s tactics perfectly as they scored with less than a minute on the clock.That complete deflated the visitors and led to Spurs controlling the game but conceding the late consolation goal will not have been part of the script they were given.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAnge to stay focussed on finalThe goal from Bodo/Glimt will have been celebrated in East London this evening.Tottenham travel to struggling West Ham on the weekend and the fact that tie now hangs in the balance, is likely to affect team selections.Postecoglou will not risk any of his key players, with nothing to play for in the Premier League other than pride.Copy linkCopiedBig man gets his goal in semiSpeaking with TNT Sports, goalscorer Dominic Solanke gave his view on his team’s performance:Yeh we are pleased with the performance, it is nice to have a two-goal lead. We know the tie is not done and it will be a tough game over there. I think it was not ideal to concede late on, we wanted to take the clean sheet and three goal lead over there. It doesn’t change it much we know we need to go there and score. Dominic SolankeTottenhamCopy linkCopiedBrits looking for epic meetingWith two Premier League sides heading into the Europa League semi-finals, most neutrals would love to see them meet in Spain in the final.While Tottenham take a two-goal lead to Norway, Man Utd won 3-0 in Spain against Athetic Club.It is all set up for an all-English final if everything goes according to plan in the second-legs next week.Copy linkCopiedGaffer has his say on winSpeaking with TNT Sports, Postecoglou shared his thoughts:Yeh look I thought in terms of performance, I could not ask anymore from the lads. We were dominant, I don’t think the scoreline reflects that. All you can ask from a first leg is that you get yourselves into a good position and I think we have done that. It just the way of our season but nothing too serious with the injuries. We decided to take them off as more of safety measure. Ange PostecoglouTottenhamCopy linkCopiedA game of fine margins Tottenham almost put in the perfect display this evening.Scoring after only 40 seconds, they never looked back and seemed in total control of this game.However, Bodo/Glimt’s first shot on target in the match took a big deflection off Bentancur to take it past Vicario in the Spurs’ goal.That now means this is a completely different tie when Postecoglou’s side head to Norway next week.Credit: ReutersCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedScorer gives thoughts on gameSpeaking with TNT Sports after the game, Johnson spoke about his side’s performance:Yeh we are pleased, I think before the game if you had offered us a two-goal cushion we would have taken it. Disappointed to concede towards the end but this is how it goes. We knew we had to be onto them straight away and getting the early goal we did just that. Brennan JohnsonTottenhamCopy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 3-1 Bodo-GlimtThat deflected goal for the visitors has completely changed the mood in North London.With Bodo/Glimt having such a good home record, this one really hangs in the balance.Spurs still have a lot of work to do in Norway next week.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King in North LondonSuddenly – and unnecessarily – next week looks interesting. Bodo fans are bouncing  and singing. Spurs  paid the price for taking the foot off the gas and not going in for the kill. The visitors’ first bit of decent play in and around the Tottenham box brought a goal for stand-in captain Ulrik Saltnes. Suspended skipper Patrick Berg and midfield partner Hakon Evjen will be back for the return, in which the Norwegians now have a glimmer of hope. It would be criminal if Spurs found a way not to reach the final. Yet Bodo have a formidable home record on their artificial pitch. Dejan Kulusevski missed a later chance and what should have been an unequivocally positive night for Tottenham had the shine taken off it.Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 3-1 Bodo-GlimtThe referee brings this first-leg to a close.A comfortable win for Spurs in front of their own fans.That consolation goal gives the visitors hope in this tie however.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt90+4. Kulusevski forces a late corner for Spurs.Porro whips it in but Gundersen is first to it once again.He has dominated the aerial duels in this second-half.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt90+2. It all seems a little nervy in the Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium.Losing Maddison and Solanke has made a big difference the spine of this team. Bodo/Glimt are growing in confidence here.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt90. A lot of Tottenham fans are making their way to the exits.It always make you wonder with these types of fans, top-flight football is known for its dramatic finishes.They are about to miss five added minutes in the capital.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt88. Porro looks to whip a cross in from out wide but it takes a deflection behind for a corner.What Totenham would give for another goal now.On this occasion Gundersen heads clear for the visitors.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt86. The Norwegians have a great record at home in this competition this season, having won all their games by two goals or more.As a result of that goal from Saltnes, this tie is back in the balance.Stick or twist time for Bodo/Glimt now.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt84. Bodo/Glimt score from their first shot on target.The effort from Saltnes took a big deflection off Bentancur to take it up over Vicario.If they could get another goal this would be seen as a decent result away from home.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Ulrik Saltnes (Bodo/Glimt)Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Bodo-Glimt82. The Norwegians are looking a little punch-drunk here.In all their games in the competition so far, they have always been competitive.That has not been the case so far in North London.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Bodo-Glimt80. What a night this could be in the Europa League semi-finals.Both English teams three-nil, up from their first-legs.Kulusevski has some time and space in the box but he shoots early and it deflects behind for a corner.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Bodo-Glimt78. Tottenham will be worried about the injuries to Solanke and Maddison.With Bergvall sat on the sidelines with a boot on, they do not need any more concerns on that front.Udogie gets down the left and tries to shoot from an impossible angle, much to the dismay of Johnson in the middle.Copy linkCopied More