Manchester United’s Thrilling 5-4 Win Sends Fear Through Athletic Bilbao – Nico Williams Admits “We’re All Scared of Him”
Manchester United’s unforgettable 5-4 triumph over Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals has sent shockwaves through Europe, not just among fans but also their upcoming opponents, Athletic Bilbao. The dramatic win has set the tone for what promises to be a heated semi-final clash. But for Athletic star Nico Williams, the focus isn’t just on the team—it’s on one specific player who, according to him, strikes fear into the hearts of the Bilbao squad.
The second leg against Lyon started off looking like a routine victory for United. With a 2-0 advantage at halftime, they appeared to have full control of the match and a clear path to the semi-finals. However, true to their unpredictable nature, Manchester United let the lead slip as Lyon mounted a fierce comeback. The French side scored twice in quick succession during extra time, leaving United on the brink of crashing out of the competition.
Just when it seemed all was lost, the experienced players took charge. Casemiro, the Brazilian midfield general, showcased exactly why he’s still one of the most valuable players in European football. His influence in all three of United’s extra-time goals was crucial, bringing both stability and belief back to the team.
Bruno Fernandes stepped up confidently to score from the spot, reigniting hope among the fans. Then came a moment of brilliance from young Kobbie Mainoo, whose equalizer turned the game on its head. Despite his youth, Mainoo showed incredible poise and quality under pressure, making a name for himself on the European stage.
The final blow was delivered by Harry Maguire. Often the subject of criticism, Maguire silenced doubters with a towering header that sealed a breathtaking 5-4 win on the night and a 7-6 aggregate victory. The celebrations were wild, both on the pitch and in the stands, as manager Rúben Amorim and his squad celebrated a win that felt like a turning point.
Now, attention shifts to the semi-final against Athletic Bilbao. Their manager, Ernesto Valverde, was full of praise for United, describing them as a true Champions League-caliber team. He acknowledged that United sees the Europa League as their last chance to qualify for the top European competition next season, and that makes them dangerous.
But Nico Williams offered a deeper insight. In a candid interview shared by Touchline X, he admitted that Manchester United is the one team they hoped to avoid. “We’re all scared of him,” Williams confessed, referring—according to sources close to the team—to Casemiro. The veteran midfielder’s tenacity, tactical awareness, and experience have made him a serious threat to opposition attacks.
For a player like Williams, known for his quick dribbles and attacking flair, facing someone like Casemiro in the middle of the park presents a daunting challenge. Casemiro’s ability to shut down plays and win crucial duels makes him a nightmare to go up against.
With emotions high and tension building, all eyes will be on this high-stakes semi-final. One thing is clear—Manchester United’s resilience, and especially Casemiro’s presence, has already planted seeds of doubt in their opponents’ minds.
