How to watch Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd in Europa League: TV channel and kick-off time

Manchester United are set for a challenging journey to in the as the competition's semi-finals get underway. Europe's second-tier competition is Ruben Amorim's last chance to make his first few months at Old Trafford a success by clinching continental silverware.

The Red Devils managed a narrow victory over 10-man Lyon in the quarter-finals to advance - but only after scoring three goals in the final seven minutes of extra time. Athletic - who are on track to qualify for next season's through La Liga, where they sit fourth - are expected to pose a much tougher test. The Basque outfit previously defeated in both home and away legs during the Europa League's last 16 in 2012. More than a decade later, it seems United's prospects have only deteriorated while Los Leones appear to be a club on the rise under ex- boss Ernesto Valverde. Just like in the previous round, a positive result in the away leg of their semi-final is crucial for United.

When is Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United?

The first of the two meetings with Athletic will commence at 8pm BST on Thursday evening. Simultaneously, Tottenham Hotspur will kick off their home game against Bodo/Glimt in the other semi-final first leg.

Amorim's squad face a daunting task as they attempt to secure victory at San Mames, where Los Leones have been particularly formidable in recent years. Athletic have suffered only two defeats in their last 45 home games - against in La Liga and Osasuna in the Copa del Rey.

This is in stark contrast to United's recent lacklustre away form, which saw them struggle to secure an eventual draw against a 10-man side on Sunday. Despite remaining unbeaten in Europe away from Old Trafford this season, a tally of just 10 goals from their last eight away matches is far from impressive.

How to watch Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United

For those tuning in from the United Kingdom, United's trip to the Basque Country will be aired on TNT Sports 1. Alternatively, commentary can be accessed via BBC Radio 5 Live or talkSPORT radio.

UK viewers also have the option to stream the match live using the Discovery+ app. However, an active Discovery+ subscription is required.

Team news

Valverde could hardly wish for a healthier squad ahead of the first leg, with striker Oihan Sancet being the sole injury concern after he was forced off in the recent 1-0 victory over Las Palmas. This should see both Williams brothers, Nico and Inaki, start in attack for Athletic, while Maroan Sannadi is expected to lead the line.

However, United are still grappling with a host of injury woes. Lisandro Martinez and Joshua Zirkzee have been ruled out for the season, while winger Amad Diallo and center-back Ayden Heaven are not yet ready to return for Amorim.

Diogo Dalot is the latest casualty on United's injury list after suffering a calf injury, but there is some positive news with Matthijs de Ligt's condition improving. His return could bolster a defence that was boosted by the comeback of Luke Shaw at Bournemouth last weekend.