Why are Man Utd wearing a different shorts for their Europa League semi-final clash against Athletic Bilbao?
MANCHESTER UNITED are set to face Athletic Bilbao in a thrilling Europa League semi-final first leg TONIGHT – and the Red Devils will be dressed slightly different than usual.
Ruben Amorim‘s men are currently 14th in the Premier League and stand no chance of securing an all-important top-five position.
Meaning that their one chance of qualifying for next season’s Champions League and securing silverware rests on winning the Europa League.
And it seems almost unthinkable that after such a disastrous campaign, they’re in with a real shout of lifting a European trophy.
But if they are to do it, they’ll need to overcome Bilbao tonight and they’ll have to do it in a change strip.
Why are Man Utd wearing a different kit?
Manchester United are wearing their blue changed shirt in order to avoid a clash with the red and white stripes of the host Bilbao.
However, they will not be using the same-coloured shorts, as they have previously away to Southampton, Arsenal (twice), Nottingham Forest and Lyon.
For the Europa League semi-final first leg,United will be wearing shorts that are officially ‘clear onyx’ in colour, for the first time this season.
Amorim’s side have worn the socks previously, against Forest at The City Ground, with the silver feel to them.
The preference is for the Reds to wear a different contrast in shorts to the opposition, for instance lighter rather than darker, and Athletic Club wear black ones.
What time does Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd kick off?
- Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd will get underway at 8pm BST
- San Mames is the chosen venue for this huge Europa League first leg and it can host approximately 53,289.
- United and Bilbao last met in 2012 and the Spaniards got the better of the Red Devils.