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If they beat Athletic Bilbao in the semi-final, then either Tottenham or Bodo/Glimt in the final, United can count themselves fortunate the damage of this appalling campaign has not been too extensive and can create a more rounded squad in the belief results will be far better in 2025-26.

He must find a way of ensuring victory over Athletic Bilbao in the semi-final and then against either Tottenham or Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt to take some comfort from a torrid period, where it is hard even for him to tell fans everything will be OK in the end.

So, United's season boils down to the two games against Spain's Athletic Bilbao and, maybe, a final against Bodo/Glimt from Norway or Tottenham.

But, following Thursday's 1-0 victory in Germany, Tottenham are through to a semi-final against Norway's Bodo/Glimt and have a first trophy in 17 years in their sights.

Whoever advances will face either Bodo/Glimt or Lazio for a place in the final.