Manchester United secured their spot in the Europa League quarter-finals in emphatic fashion, thanks to a brilliant hat-trick from Bruno Fernandes. The Red Devils dominated Real Sociedad with a 4-1 victory at Old Trafford on Thursday, sealing a 5-2 aggregate win.

The match saw a flurry of penalties, with Mikel Oyarzabal converting an early spot-kick to give Sociedad the lead. However, Fernandes responded swiftly, netting two penalties of his own—one in the first half and another just five minutes into the second period—to swing the momentum back in United’s favor.

The Portuguese maestro wasn’t done yet. He capped off his stellar performance by slotting home his 15th goal of the season, effectively booking United’s place in the last eight, where they will face Lyon. Diogo Dalot added the finishing touch with a late goal, wrapping up an outstanding night for manager Ruben Amorim.

Amorim, reflecting on Fernandes’ impact, praised the playmaker’s leadership and influence. “When we need him, he always delivers. He is the perfect captain, and we must support him in winning titles because he truly deserves it,” said the United boss.

With United languishing in 14th place in the Premier League and already eliminated from domestic cup competitions, the Europa League represents their last chance to salvage an otherwise disappointing campaign.

Real Sociedad, also banking on European success to redeem their underwhelming La Liga season, found themselves at the center of controversy. Manager Imanol Alguacil expressed frustration over the officiating, particularly as French referee Benoit Bastien awarded United three penalties, one of which was later overturned. Additionally, Sociedad defender Jon Aramburu was sent off early in the second half, further compounding their woes.

Sociedad initially made a strong start, with Oyarzabal converting from the spot after Matthijs de Ligt fouled him while attempting to reach Aritz Elustondo’s cross in the 10th minute. The Spanish forward had also scored from the penalty spot in the first leg, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

Despite Sociedad’s early lead, United responded quickly. Rasmus Hojlund, enduring a prolonged goal drought of 21 games, won a penalty after being fouled while attempting to meet Fernandes’ cross. The United captain calmly slotted home the equalizer.

The Red Devils should have gone into halftime with the advantage, but Hojlund squandered a golden opportunity by misfiring a teasing delivery from Joshua Zirkzee.

Just five minutes into the second half, United were handed another chance when Patrick Dorgu was fouled by Elustondo inside the box. Fernandes made no mistake, burying his second penalty of the night.

Sociedad’s uphill battle became even steeper when Aramburu saw red for bringing down the relentless Dorgu in the 61st minute. The Danish full-back continued to be a menace, winning a third penalty for United. However, in a rare moment of sportsmanship, Dorgu informed the referee that there had been no foul, prompting the decision to be overturned.

While the night was filled with positives for United, their misfiring strikers continued to struggle. Zirkzee failed to beat Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro twice, missing a close-range header with the goal at his mercy.

Fernandes, in contrast, demonstrated clinical finishing, driving Alejandro Garnacho’s pass into the bottom corner in the 87th minute. Hojlund finally contributed to the scoresheet—not with a goal, but with an assist—as his cross was smashed into the net by Dalot, putting the final gloss on a memorable victory.

United now set their sights on Lyon, hoping to continue their European adventure and salvage their season with silverware.

Since making a temporary switch to Real Betis during the January transfer window, Antony has wasted no time in making an impact. The Brazilian winger has already contributed three goals and an assist in just four matches, a stark contrast to his challenging stint at Manchester United.

Antony, who arrived at Old Trafford from Ajax in 2022 for a hefty £85 million fee, never truly found his rhythm in the Premier League. Across 96 appearances, he managed only 12 goals and five assists, failing to justify his price tag. With United looking to cut costs and offer him a fresh start, a loan move to Real Betis became the perfect opportunity.

Now thriving under the guidance of Manuel Pellegrini, Antony is rediscovering his best form. His recent standout performance included a goal and an assist in Betis’ commanding 3-0 victory over Real Sociedad in LaLiga. The winger credits his resurgence to his new environment, stating, “I wake up every day with a smile!”

Speaking to Betis TV, Antony emphasized how his happiness has translated into improved performances. “The most important thing is that I have found myself again,” he explained. “I am enjoying every moment, and when we are happy and content, things naturally fall into place. I have worked hard, both mentally and physically, to be at this level.”

Despite the evident contrast between his struggles at United and his current success in Spain, Antony remained diplomatic about his former club. “I had great moments in Manchester too. I won two titles and I am very grateful for that,” he acknowledged. However, he couldn’t help but highlight the stark difference in atmosphere. “Here, I feel at home. The people remind me of Brazil, and even the sunshine makes a difference. I’m truly happy here.”

While Antony is still under contract with Manchester United until June 2027, his revitalization at Real Betis raises questions about his long-term future. With his resurgence in Spain, it remains to be seen whether United will welcome him back with open arms or if a permanent move away is on the horizon.