(4-2-3-1) Martínez and Diallo back after long-term injury, Maguire’s position changed again — Predicted Man United line-up vs Athletic Bilbao as Rúben Amorim sets sights on first major trophy

(4-2-3-1) Martínez and Diallo back after long-term injury, Maguire’s position changed again — Predicted Man United line-up vs Athletic Bilbao as Rúben Amorim sets sights on first major trophy

 

 

As Manchester United gear up to face Athletic Bilbao in the final of the Europa Conference League, all eyes are on new manager Rúben Amorim, who is on the brink of securing his first major trophy at Old Trafford. After a turbulent season, riddled with injuries, inconsistency, and managerial change, this match represents not only a shot at silverware but a chance to restore pride and belief within the red half of Manchester.

 

With a fully fit squad for the first time in months, including the long-awaited returns of Lisandro Martínez and Amad Diallo, Amorim is expected to field a dynamic and aggressive 4-2-3-1 formation — a setup that reflects both his tactical philosophy and the attacking traditions of the club.

 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the predicted line-up and what it means for United’s approach as they chase continental glory.

 

 

—

 

Goalkeeper: André Onana

 

Despite a rocky start to his United career, André Onana has grown in stature and confidence as the season progressed. His ball-playing ability and vocal leadership from the back have become crucial to the team’s structure under Amorim, who places high value on playing out from the back. Against an intense and physical Bilbao side, Onana’s distribution and composure will be vital in bypassing the press and launching counters.

 

 

—

 

Back Four: Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martínez, Shaw

 

The defensive line finally has a familiar feel again. With Martínez fit and ready after months out with a foot injury, he slots straight back into the left centre-back role, offering composure, aggression, and exceptional passing from the back. His return comes at a perfect time, giving the defense renewed solidity.

 

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is likely to start at right-back, favored for his one-on-one defensive ability, particularly against Athletic Bilbao’s pacy wide players. Luke Shaw, now fully fit, takes the left-back role, providing overlapping runs and accurate deliveries from the flank.

 

Partnering Martínez at centre-back is Raphael Varane — with Harry Maguire once again pushed to an alternative role, possibly rotated into midfield or as part of a tactical back-three later in the match if Amorim shifts formations. Amorim has used Maguire’s aerial dominance in different ways, even experimenting with him in a sweeping role when the team sits deeper.

 

 

—

 

Midfield Pivot: Casemiro and Mainoo

 

The midfield double pivot of Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo blends experience and youthful exuberance. Casemiro, though not at his peak this season, remains an expert at controlling tempo and reading danger. His leadership in finals is invaluable.

 

Mainoo, on the other hand, has been a revelation — fearless, intelligent, and technically refined beyond his years. His ability to carry the ball through midfield and link defense to attack gives United a transition threat they sorely missed early in the campaign. Amorim has made Mainoo a key part of his rebuild, and this final is a reward for the young star’s consistency and maturity.

 

 

—

 

Attacking Midfield Trio: Diallo, Fernandes, Garnacho

 

One of the biggest stories heading into the final is the return of Amad Diallo. After a long injury layoff, Diallo has impressed in recent cameos, showing sharpness, vision, and the kind of creativity United have often lacked in the wide areas. He is tipped to start on the right, where his left foot can cut inside to link with Fernandes or fire on goal.

 

Bruno Fernandes, of course, retains the No. 10 role. Amorim has placed great faith in the captain, giving him full license to roam, create, and influence the game. Bruno’s work rate and ability to produce game-defining moments in key matches make him indispensable.

 

On the left, Alejandro Garnacho continues to thrive. The Argentine winger has made himself undroppable with his direct style, goals, and relentless work rate. His ability to stretch defenses and take on full-backs could be key to unsettling Bilbao’s defensive line.

 

 

—

 

Striker: Rasmus Højlund

 

Leading the line is Rasmus Højlund, the young Danish striker who has slowly but surely found his form under Amorim. Though his goal tally hasn’t matched early expectations, his movement, strength, and link-up play have improved significantly. Højlund’s role isn’t just to score, but to press high, create space for runners, and pin opposition center-backs.

 

In a final where space may be limited and chances few, Højlund’s ability to make something from nothing could be the difference.

 

 

—

 

Bench Options and Tactical Flexibility

 

One of Amorim’s key assets is his adaptability. Though he is starting with a 4-2-3-1, he has repeatedly shown a willingness to switch to a back-three mid-game, particularly if United are protecting a lead or need to overload the midfield.

 

Players like Harry Maguire, Diogo Dalot, and Scott McTominay give him those options, while Christian Eriksen and Mason Mount can offer creativity and control if United dominate possession. Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford — both having had mixed seasons — could be game-changing substitutions depending on how the match unfolds.

 

 

—

 

Amorim’s Moment of Truth

 

For Rúben Amorim, this final represents more than a trophy — it’s a statement. After arriving from Sporting CP with a big reputation, there were skeptics who questioned whether he could manage the pressure and chaos of Manchester United. But steady results, improved discipline, and a clearer playing identity have silenced many doubters.

 

Winning the Europa Conference League wouldn’t just validate his appointment — it would inject belief into a squad that’s seen too many false dawns.

 

Moreover, it would give fans something to celebrate again. For a club steeped in tradition and success, any silverware is meaningful — especially when it signals the dawn of a new, ambitious era.

 

 

—

 

Predicted Line-Up vs Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1):

 

GK: André Onana

RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka

CB: Raphael Varane

CB: Lisandro Martínez

LB: Luke Shaw

CDM: Casemiro

CM: Kobbie Mainoo

RW: Amad Diallo

CAM: Bruno Fernandes

LW: Alejandro Garnacho

ST: Rasmus Højlund

 

 

—

 

Final Thoughts

 

Manchester United’s showdown with Athletic Bilbao will be a defining night — for the players, for the new manager, and for the fans desperate for signs of genuine progress. With Martínez and Diallo back in the fold, a settled tactical plan, and the hunger for silverware coursing through the squad, the stage is set for Rúben Amorim’s first great triumph in English football.

 

Now, it’s down to the players to deliver on the promise. Because at Manchester United, winning isn’t optional

— it’s expected.

 

 

—

 

Would you like a graphic or visual formation chart included with this article?