'Always the best' - Amad Diallo hails understated Manchester United star who played key role vs Athletic Club

Manchester United secured their place in the Europa League final after a 4-1 win over Athletic Club on Thursday night and a comfortable 7-1 victory on aggregate across the semi-final tie.

The Basque club started well at Old Trafford and held a deserved lead in the match before a late United comeback saw them score four unanswered goals. Mason Mount grabbed headlines with his brilliant brace, Casemiro continued his fine European form with a delightful header, and Rasmus Hojlund was in the right place at the right time to score a simple tap-in.

In the end, it was a rather comfortable night for Ruben Amorim's side, who were once again inspired by the brilliance of their captain Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese playmaker did not find the back of the net himself but grabbed an assist when the head of Casemiro met his free-kick to put them ahead for the first time on the night.

Bruno Fernandes brilliant

Bruno Fernandes is a certainty to win the Sir Matt Busby player of the year award and has been in such good form this season he even has a chance to be included in the Premier League team of the season. The 30-year-old has been in irresistible form across the last few months and played an understated role in their second-leg victory.

Fernandes won 11 ground and aerial duels against Athletic Club, completed 39 passes, made two successful crosses and won four tackles. He also won four free kicks for his side in a well-rounded display.

Taking to social media after the win, Fernandes piled the praise on Mason Mount for his impact from the bench, though it wasn't long before the club captain was inundated with love himself. “Reds we are going to Bilbao. Mason Mount bend it like becks. You deserve this moment kid," he posted.

Amad Diallo was one of those who commented on the post and simply wrote: "ALWAYS the best," while former teammate Odion Ighalo added: "My captain, what a player." Joshua Zirkzee added "there will be thousands of red I've heard," in reference to the United fan chant about the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur at the San Mames on 21 May.

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