In a resounding 4-1 victory over Athletic Club on May 8, 2025, Manchester United secured their place in the Europa League final with a dominant performance at Old Trafford. The aggregate score of 7-1 underscored United’s superiority over the two legs, with standout performances across the pitch.
Mason Mount emerged as the star of the evening, netting two goals, including a remarkable long-range effort in stoppage time. Casemiro and Rasmus Højlund also contributed to the scoreline, turning the match decisively in United’s favor after Athletic’s early lead through Mikel Jauregizar.
However, it was the defensive prowess of Leny Yoro that caught the attention of club legend Paul Scholes. Drawing parallels to the tenacious Italian midfielder Gennaro Gattuso, Scholes remarked, “He played just like Prime Gattuso. He showed that there’s still hope for Manchester United’s defense.” Such high praise from a player of Scholes’s caliber underscores the impact Yoro had in controlling the backline and breaking up opposition play.
Despite rumors suggesting Yoro might be leaving at the end of the season, Scholes expressed a strong desire for the club to retain him, stating, “I have rumors that he might be leaving, but I’ll make sure that he starts every match next season.” This endorsement could influence the club’s decision-making regarding Yoro’s future at Old Trafford.
United’s victory sets up an all-English Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur on May 21 at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao. Both teams have had underwhelming domestic campaigns, but their European performances offer a chance for redemption and silverware.
As United prepares for the final, the defensive partnership of Yoro and emerging talent Kobbie Mainoo provides a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Mainoo, who has drawn comparisons to Zinedine Zidane from Scholes, brings creativity and vision to complement Yoro’s defensive solidity.
The upcoming final presents an opportunity for Manchester United to cap off their European campaign with a trophy and secure a spot in next season’s Champions League. With players like Yoro and Mainoo leading the charge, the future of United’s defense looks promising.