Joshua Zirkzee reacts to Manchester United goals in dismantling of Athletic Club in the Europa League | OneFootball

Manchester United produced a blistering display against Athletic Club last night to put one foot in the Europa League final and keep their season alive.

First half goals from Casemiro and a double from Bruno Fernandes meant United could control proceedings in the second half and cruise into the second leg at Old Trafford with what looks like an unassailable advantage.

United’s 3-0 win was even more impressive given the players they are missing due to injury, an issue that has plagued their campaign from start to finish.

Joshua Zirkzee is one high profile name that is currently sidelined, representing a blow to Ruben Amorim after the Dutchman had found some form in recent weeks.

However, the 23-year-old wasn’t to be denied the celebrations on what was a fantastic night for the club, posting his reactions to each of the United goals on his social media.

Zirkzee remained silent for United’s opener which was nodded home by Casemiro after fine work from Harry Maguire on the right wing, captioning the replay with “GET INNN!!!!! COME ON BOYS!!!!!” and three love heart emojis.

If United’s number 11 kept his calm for the first, he couldn’t hide his delight as Fernandes calmly stroked home his penalty to double United’s advantage leading to Zirkzee shouting, “never in doubt” followed by “Come on! Vamos!”

The 23-year-old ramped up the volume as Fernandes netted United’s third, screaming in delight with the caption: “My captain!!!!!!!” on the video.

Prior to his injury, the former Bologna man was finding his way into the hearts of United fans with some impressive displays after a rocky start to life in Manchester.

Despite being ruled out for the rest season, Zirkzee is clearly still invested with his teammates and this kind of passion will continue to build his relationship with United supporters.

The forward has notched just seven times in his debut season but will be expected to improve those numbers next year after finding his feet in new surroundings.

However, before then, United have given themselves a huge chance to end a woeful campaign with European glory after last night’s heroics and Zirkzee will no doubt present at Old Trafford for last week’s second leg.

Barring a monumental collapse, United will find themselves in the final of a competition they have not yet been defeated in and Amorim could finish his testing first season with silverware and a ticket to the next year’s coveted Champions League.

Featured image Ion Alcoba Beitia via Getty Images

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social