Man Utd's Europa League win over Athletic Club is great news for Arsenal

Manchester United’s stunning victory over Athletic Club could inadvertently do Arsenal a huge favour ahead of the summer transfer window. The Red Devils are taking a very strong 3-0 lead into the second leg at Old Trafford thanks to the best performance of Ruben Amorim’s tenure so far.

Casemiro’s header and Bruno Fernandes’ brace sealed a big victory over the 10-man Spanish outfit. United now have one foot already in the Europa League final following a commanding display. They could meet Tottenham in the European showdown, with their Premier League rivals beating Bodo/Glimt in their own semi-final first leg.

But there could be cause for celebration on the other side of north London after a successful evening for the English clubs in Europe. That is because United’s victory reportedly strengthens Arsenal’s chances of signing Athletic star Nico Williams in the summer.

Williams snubbed interest from Arsenal and Barcelona last summer, opting to remain at the Basque club and inherit their famous No. 10 shirt. However, the upcoming transfer window could see the highly-rated Spain international depart.

According to The Times, Williams plans to remain at Athletic if they win the Europa League and subsequently qualify for next season’s Champions League. If they fail to do that, though, the winger could reportedly be more tempted by a departure.

United’s 3-0 lead from the first leg puts Athletic in an extremely difficult position ahead of their trip to Old Trafford next week. The chances of Ernesto Valverde’s side reaching the final now seem extremely slim.

Arsenal are determined to strengthen their forward line ahead of the 2025-26 season. A new centre-forward is expected to arrive at the Emirates Stadium, but so could an upgrade out wide.

Williams has enjoyed another positive season in Spain. The 22-year-old has scored 11 goals and provided seven assists across all competitions. It comes after he caught the eye during Spain’s Euro 2024-winning campaign in Germany last summer.

But despite refreshed links with Arsenal and Barca, Williams said his only focus remains on getting Athletic into the Europa League final.

Speaking ahead of the first leg, Williams said: "The dream is to lift the champion’s trophy at San Mames. I have the opportunity to make history at this club. The dream never ends. I’m 100 per cent focused on Thursday, on reaching the final and winning it. I don’t want to look any further. I’m super happy here and… well. I’ve always wanted to feel important here. This is a 10/10 season for me."