Manchester United just gave Ruben Amorim his biggest statement win yet

Manchester United took a comfortable 3-0 lead after the first leg against Athletic Club. Could the game have been Ruben Amorim's best yet?
Athletic Bilbao v Manchester United - UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg
Athletic Bilbao v Manchester United - UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg | Clive Brunskill/GettyImages

Ruben Amorim hasn't had the easiest task as Manchester United manager since he took over. However, United's Europa League campaign so far is something Amorim will be proud of. The first leg against Athletic Club could have been Amorim's best match in charge yet.

Ruben Amorim's secret star

There has been a certain level of unhappiness with some players at the club. After some poor performances and fans wanting him sold, Harry Maguire has stepped into the spotlight and delivered under Amorim.

Maguire has been solid for the backline this season, but his past few Europa League performances have been on another level. Maguire was used as a makeshift forward during the Lyon second leg, and he came up big scoring the winning goal.

Against Athletic Club, Maguire created the chance that put United ahead. His work on the wing was exceptional for a center-back. Maguire dribbled down the side and shook off his defender, leaving him and putting a cross in the box, which eventually found Casemiro for the opening goal.

Maguire's performance has led to fans dubbing him "Harrydinho", with the English man celebrating the Brazilian nickname. Maguire has started to become one of Amorim's crucial players in big matches like these.

Amorim's best Manchester United game yet?

With all to play for in the Europa League, Amorim needed a big performance and that's just what he got. The 3-0 win is a nice margin to have before Athletic Club travels to Manchester, where the Spanish side will try to cut the deficit.

Amorim will have been pleased with his team's performance, especially as it came against the team that has been called La Liga's best defense this season. Bruno Fernandes put on a show again, securing another brace.

Manchester United did play with a man up for a good portion of the game after Rasmus Hojlund drew a penalty against Dani Vivian, who was sent off for his challenge. Fernandes scored his first goal via the penalty, putting United up 2-0.

Amorim's side showed they were better during the first leg. Playing with an extra man helped, but United showed the talent they possess throughout the game. A nifty exchange between Manuel Ugarte and Fernandes brought the captain his second goal of the night late in the first half.

The third goal ultimately sealed the win for United, as they kept their clean sheet in the second half. United pressured all game, something that hasn't been seen as much this season. Everything seemed to be going United's way. There were exchanges on and off the ball that helped to secure the win. Amorim's best game so far put United in prime position to secure their spot in the competition's final.