“Man United is the only team we don’t want to face and that’s because of that guy, he’s so difficult to play against and we’re all scared of him”: Nico Williams names ONE Man United’s player who’s every Athletic Bilbao players’ nightmare. NICO IS SCARED OF ONE PARTICULAR UNITED’S DEFENDER.

Nico Williams Admits Manchester United Star Terrifies Athletic Bilbao Ahead of Europa League Clash

Manchester United’s heart-racing 5–4 triumph over Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals has not only thrilled supporters but also rattled their upcoming semi-final opponents, Athletic Bilbao. Among the most telling reactions was a candid confession from Bilbao winger Nico Williams, who admitted there’s one Red Devils player his entire squad fears.

Thursday night’s showdown at Old Trafford was anything but predictable. United, under Rúben Amorim, seemed in control with a 2–0 lead by halftime. But Lyon staged a fierce comeback, pushing the match into extra time and scoring twice—leaving United dangerously close to elimination.

In this moment of chaos, United’s seasoned figures rose to the occasion. Casemiro was instrumental, orchestrating United’s recovery with the poise and authority of a true leader. His involvement in three extra-time goals displayed not only his experience but also his unyielding resolve. Bruno Fernandes contributed with a pressure-packed penalty, and young Kobbie Mainoo showed maturity beyond his years by netting a critical equalizer.

But it was Harry Maguire who provided the final, unforgettable blow—rising high to head home the winning goal and complete United’s rollercoaster 7–6 aggregate win. The scenes of celebration at full-time were euphoric, but the focus quickly shifted to what comes next: a daunting semi-final against Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Bilbao.

Valverde, a respected tactician, acknowledged United’s pedigree. He remarked, “Manchester United are playing like a Champions League club. This competition is their ticket back to the top, and they’re treating it that way.”

Nico Williams, however, didn’t speak in abstract praise. He got personal. In comments quoted by Touchline X, he said, “Manchester United is the one team we all hoped to avoid. And that’s because of that guy. He’s just too hard to deal with—we’re honestly scared of him.”

While Williams didn’t specify a name, those close to the Bilbao camp suggest his fear is aimed at none other than Casemiro. The Brazilian’s defensive dominance, tactical awareness, and leadership have made him a nightmare for opposition teams, particularly for sides like Bilbao that thrive on quick transitions and fluid attacking patterns.

Williams, known for his speed and attacking flair, would likely find it difficult to operate freely with Casemiro disrupting his rhythm in midfield. It’s no surprise then that Casemiro, a former Real Madrid stalwart, commands such respect—and fear.

This won’t be Valverde’s first tactical duel with United. Back in 2019, he guided Barcelona to a convincing win over the Red Devils in the Champions League. Though United have evolved since then, that history gives Valverde a psychological edge. Ironically, he was once considered for the managerial role at United after Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s departure—though the appointment never materialized.

Now, as United prepare to face Bilbao on May 1st, Amorim faces his biggest test to date. Despite their attacking brilliance, conceding four goals at home is a concern that must be addressed. Bilbao’s well-drilled setup will not forgive defensive lapses.

There’s also a poetic thread to this fixture: should United advance, they’ll return to Bilbao once again in May—this time for the Europa League final. The city could mark either the site of Amorim’s crowning achievement or the scene of a crushing end.

The stakes are high. For United, this tournament is their clearest route back to the Champions League. For Amorim, it’s a chance to cap off his debut season with silverware and credibility.

More than just tactics or form, though, this tie carries emotional weight. Williams’ comments reflect the mental advantage United now possess. When an opponent publicly admits fear of a specific player, it reveals the psychological pressure United exert—and Casemiro, with his title-winning experience, is at the center of it.

In the end, this semi-final won’t just be about goals or possession. It’ll be about who handles the pressure best. United’s comeback against Lyon showcased their resilience and rising stars. Now, all eyes are on Bilbao, where fear meets fire in a battle for European glory.