Nico, Inaki Williams, Sancet out for Athletic Club vs Manchester United

Manchester United have received a significant advantage ahead of the Europa League semi-final second leg against Athletic Bilbao, as key Bilbao players Nico Williams, Inaki Williams, and top scorer Oihan Sancet have all been ruled out due to injury or fitness issues. Nico Williams, a major creative force, and his brother Inaki, who has been a consistent attacking threat, will miss the match, with Inaki sidelined by a muscle injury and Nico excluded from the squad without an official explanation. Sancet, Athletic's leading scorer this season, remains out after missing the first leg. Additionally, Athletic will be without suspended center-back Dani Vivian. United, holding a 3-0 aggregate lead after a dominant performance in the first leg, are in a strong position to advance, but manager Erik ten Hag is cautioned not to underestimate Bilbao despite their depleted squad. The absences are seen as a timely boost for United, who are aiming to secure Champions League qualification through the Europa League.