❗❗Breaking news: Man Utd news: David de Gea’s return confirmed as Andre Onana savaged by Red Devils icon

David De Gea is set for an emotional Old Trafford return(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United face one of the biggest games of their season on Thursday night as they travel to Spain. The Red Devils take on La Liga side Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals of the Europa League.

And while there is silverware on the line, United might think that a place in the Champions League is the bigger prize – particularly as they get their planning for next season underway. Ruben Amorim ’s side are in dire need of a rebuild.

But there’s just one problem – they’re severely strapped for cash, hence why a return to Europe’s top table is the priority. Given how disappointing their Premier League campaign has been, their upcoming clash with Bilbao represents their last chance.

United are already in Spain ahead of the game, with Amorim having spoken. With that being said, take a look at the standout headlines from the red side of Manchester from the past 24 hours:

De Gea return announced
Former Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea is set to make an emotional return to Old Trafford this summer – but only for a friendly. The Red Devils are set to welcome the Spaniard’s current side Fiorentina for their last pre-season friendly ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

The clash with the Serie A giants will take place on Saturday, August 9 and will kick off at 12:45pm. It will represent De Gea’s first return to Old Trafford since being allowed to leave by Erik ten Hag in 2023.
Jason Wilcox, Manchester United’s Technical Director, said: “This final pre-season fixture is key to our preparations for the 2025/26 campaign – it will ensure the players have all had competitive game time, against top opposition, in different environments, including Old Trafford, before the Premier League resumes.

“We have worked closely with Ruben and his coaching staff to put together a schedule of exciting and competitive fixtures that create the best conditions for the team to prepare. This includes utilising some of the leading sporting facilities in the US, playing against strong opponents, and creating opportunities for as many fans as possible to see the team.”

READ MORE: Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim concedes not even Europa League win would save disastrous season
READ MORE: Why Chido Obi-Martin has been named in Man Utd squad vs Bilbao despite Europa League ban
Onana slammed by Sheringham
On the topic of goalkeepers, current United stopper Andre Onana has been savaged by club icon Teddy Sheringham. “With Andre Onana, I’m all for the passion, but it’s not about what’s happened in the past, and it’s not about saying what you’re going to do, it’s all about results and performances on the pitch,” the former striker CasinoHawks.

You need to shut up at times and just button your lip and just hold your tongue if you can. But I fully understand the pressure these people are under.”

Sheringham’s comments come after Onana became embroiled in a war of words with Nemanja Matic ahead of the Europa League clash with Lyon.

What team should United play vs Bilbao? Share your thoughts in the comments below

Amorim sends Bilbao warning
Ruben Amorim has told his stars to ensure this season’s heroic comeback against the French side was not for nothing. Speaking ahead of the clash with Bilbao, he said: “We’re always searching for a great moment that can change a lot of things.

“We just need to be consistent, but it was a great night. In this kind of season, you have these special moments that you can take and use to do something even more special.”

Here’s a polished news-style summary combining the latest Manchester United updates with a cohesive narrative:

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**Manchester United’s Crucial Bilbao Clash Looms as David De Gea’s Return Is Confirmed**

As Manchester United prepare for one of the most critical matches of their season — a Europa League semi-final first leg against Athletic Club on Thursday night — the club is abuzz with major storylines both on and off the pitch.

United’s trip to Bilbao could determine not just their chances at silverware, but also their route back into the UEFA Champions League. With a dismal Premier League campaign leaving them marooned in 14th place, the Europa League has become their last viable path to Europe’s top competition. Rúben Amorim has admitted the season needs a defining moment — and this could be it.

**David De Gea’s Emotional Return Confirmed**

Away from the heat of competition, a beloved figure is set to return home. Former United goalkeeper David De Gea will make an emotional return to Old Trafford this summer, as part of a friendly fixture between Manchester United and Fiorentina — his current club. Scheduled for Saturday, August 9, with a 12:45pm kickoff, the match will serve as United’s final pre-season fixture ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

It will mark De Gea’s first appearance at Old Trafford since his departure in 2023, when he was released by then-manager Erik ten Hag despite years of loyal service and multiple Player of the Year awards.

United’s Technical Director Jason Wilcox said, *“This final pre-season fixture is key to our preparations. It’s a chance to give our squad high-level competitive action in different conditions, including at Old Trafford, before the new season begins.”*

**Onana Criticized by Club Legend**

Meanwhile, United’s current No.1 Andre Onana has found himself under scrutiny from a club legend. Former striker Teddy Sheringham slammed the Cameroonian international following his public feud with ex-United midfielder Nemanja Matic, calling for more focus and humility.

*”With Onana, I’m all for passion,”* Sheringham said, *”but it’s not about what’s happened or what you’re saying — it’s about results. You’ve got to shut up sometimes and just get the job done.”*

The remarks add pressure on Onana ahead of the pivotal European clash.

**Amorim Urges Focus Ahead of Bilbao Test**

Speaking ahead of Thursday’s showdown, Amorim has called on his squad to channel the spirit of their stirring comeback against Lyon in the previous round.

*”We’re always searching for a great moment that can change everything,”* Amorim said. *”In a season like this, you take a special moment and turn it into something bigger. That’s what Bilbao can be for us.”*

With Amad Diallo returning to training, De Ligt back in contention, and the squad desperate for redemption, the scene is set for a dramatic encounter in Spain.

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