Athletic Club Set to Face Man United in UEL Semifinal

According to UEFA.com, Athletic Club will face Manchester United in the Europa League semifinal — a major opportunity after missing out on the Champions League this season due to overzealous celebrations.

The club’s Copa del Rey victory celebration aboard the Gabarra on the Nervión River — their first since 1984 — had a clear impact on performance. Iñaki Williams admitted the players consumed excessive alcohol during the festivities.

“From riding the Gabarra for 2.5 hours to San Mamés, we drank beer like animals,” Williams revealed. “We almost beat Villarreal the next night while still drunk!”

San Mamés — known as “The Cathedral” — will host the historic clash against Manchester United. Ernesto Valverde, who nearly joined United in 2021, now leads the Basque side’s quest for their first European trophy.

The club’s unique philosophy of fielding only players of Basque heritage fosters a deep connection with supporters. As club icon Aritz Aduriz once said:

“Athletic is more than just a club for our fans. It’s a philosophy, a kind of religion. Every Athletic fan sees the club as a part of themselves.”