This wasn’t how Manchester United fans imagined the season would play out.
From talk of rebuilding and resurgence to the club now clinging to the Europa League like a lifeline, it’s been nothing short of a disaster.
And Bruno Fernandes—never one to sugarcoat—has made it painfully clear: even winning Europe’s second-tier tournament won’t undo the damage that’s been done.
Bruno Fernandes Says It Like It Is
The Portuguese midfielder has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise miserable campaign, but that doesn’t mean he’s letting anyone off the hook.
When asked about the significance of winning the Europa League, Fernandes didn’t mince his words.
“I wouldn’t say it’s a reward,” he said ahead of Thursday’s semi-final clash.
“It will just be success in terms of the Europa League. But it won’t save anything.”
That’s a brutally honest take from the team captain—and it tells you everything about how deeply this season has gone off the rails.
The Only Hope Left: Europe or Bust
Ruben Amorim’s side has had a Premier League season to forget, currently sitting in an unfathomable 14th place.
But their Europa League run, while shaky, has kept faint hope alive.
If they can get past Athletic Bilbao over two legs, a spot in the final awaits—against either Tottenham or Norwegian underdogs Bodo/Glimt.
Still, Fernandes is clear: no trophy can disguise the cracks.
This campaign has already been labeled one of the worst in the club’s modern history, even by Amorim himself.
Bilbao Are Ready for Their Big Moment
United’s opponents on Thursday, Athletic Bilbao, are hungry too—and perhaps for more than just a shot at glory. The final will take place at their iconic San Mames stadium.
That’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the Basque side, and Fernandes knows it won’t be easy.
“They have the final at home if they beat us,” he said. “So it will be really tough. You have to be prepared.”
United Scraping Through—and Not Impressively
United barely managed a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth last weekend, salvaged only by a late Rasmus Hojlund goal.
It was yet another reminder of how low their domestic form has sunk. The midfield’s been leaky, the defense unreliable, and the attacking play inconsistent.
Through all the chaos, Fernandes has stood tall—racking up 15 goals and 14 assists across competitions.
But one man alone can’t carry a sinking ship.
Champions League Qualification Could Mean Everything—Financially
As much as pride is on the line, there’s also a massive financial incentive to secure a Champions League place.
The revenue boost could give United a much-needed edge in the summer transfer market—and help them comply with the Premier League’s financial sustainability rules.
Missing out would not only hit their wallet but also reduce their appeal to top-tier players.
Matheus Cunha: A Target, But Will He Fit?
One name already being linked with the club is Wolves striker Matheus Cunha.
Reports suggest United are close to agreeing personal terms, and a £62.5 million release clause could soon be triggered.
But club legend Paul Scholes isn’t convinced Cunha is the answer.
In his TNT Sports column, he raised real concerns.
“He’s got quality and 15 goals this season, sure,” Scholes wrote.
“But I just worry for any signing coming to Manchester United right now. It just feels like such a bad place to go.”
Is This Team Even Ready for Reinforcements?
Scholes went even further, questioning the team’s current structure and style of play.
“You can sign the best three players in the world and they’ll struggle in this team,” he said.
“It’s not just about buying quality; it’s about building a system where players can thrive.”
That raises an uncomfortable truth: even if United do qualify for the Champions League, are they actually ready for it?
All Eyes on Thursday Night in Spain
United will travel to Spain for the first leg of the Europa League semi-final on Thursday.
It’s a match that could define the remainder of their season—and possibly set the tone for their summer.
Will they pull off a late redemption story? Or will this campaign go down as one of the club’s darkest chapters?