Bruno Fernandes believes that winning the Europa League trophy would not redeem Manchester United`s disappointing season overall.
Manchester United currently sits 14th in the Premier League table with four games remaining, having secured a late draw against Bournemouth on Sunday.
Despite their low league position, the team still has an opportunity to salvage their campaign by winning a European trophy, which would also secure qualification for next season`s Champions League.
However, ahead of their Europa League semi-final first leg match against Athletic Bilbao on Thursday, captain Fernandes stated that this potential success would not mask the overall poor performance of the season.
Fernandes commented: “I wouldn`t call it a reward; I see it simply as achieving success specifically in the Europa League. Winning silverware this season is very important, but it won`t save anything regarding the season as a whole.”
Athletic Bilbao is currently fourth in La Liga and have an extra motivation to reach the final, as it will be hosted in their home city next month.
He added: “They have the chance to play the final at home if they beat us, so it will be very challenging. We need to be prepared.”
Reflecting on their recent league match, Manchester United managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth on Sunday.
United went behind early in the match when Antoine Semenyo scored in the 23rd minute.
A Bournemouth player was sent off with about twenty minutes left, giving United an advantage.
Rasmus Hojlund then scored a late goal to equalise, impacting Bournemouth`s own aspirations.
Marcus Bellamy