Could Loanees Antony and Rashford Still Claim Europa League Glory with Manchester United?
Manchester United have reached the final of the Europa League after a convincing 4-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao, culminating in a dominant 7-1 aggregate score. This significant achievement places United on the brink of European silverware and offers players a chance to etch their names into the club's illustrious history.
On the night of their semi-final triumph, Ruben Amorim witnessed his team deliver a performance brimming with quality and determination. Mason Mount, in particular, emerged as a fan favourite after netting two goals after coming off the bench, securing the man of the match accolade from the Old Trafford faithful.
The impending final, set for 21st May at San Mames stadium, raises an intriguing question regarding two of United’s loanees, Marcus Rashford and Antony: could they still receive winners' medals despite being on loan? According to UEFA regulations, the winning team is awarded 50 gold medals, which are allocated at the club's discretion.
Both Rashford and Antony played pivotal roles in United's Europa League campaign before their loans; Rashford made six appearances and scored once, while Antony notched four appearances. This contributes to a strong argument in favour of their eligibility for medals should United emerge victorious.
However, the situation becomes more complex when considering Antony's current involvement in the UEFA Conference League with Real Betis. The Brazilian forward has been instrumental for Betis, scoring four goals in their European campaign, and could potentially win a second medal if both United and Betis triumph in their respective finals.
This dual prospect of glory also leads to speculation regarding the club's decision-making. With the final rule allowing for discretion in medal distribution, there is no guarantee that Antony will receive his deserving award. This ambiguous ruling has left fans pondering whether the forward will be recognised for his contributions made earlier in the season.
As the anticipation builds leading up to the final, the stakes for Amorim heighten. Winning the Europa League would not only celebrate the club's season but also secure a place in next season’s Champions League, a vital objective for any club wishing to compete at the highest level. Therefore, the final could serve as an opportunity to vindicate a challenging campaign where United has struggled significantly in the Premier League, currently sitting mid-table with lacklustre performances.
Amorim has acknowledged the pressure of the upcoming match, emphasising the need to be clinical and focused. He remarked, "If we don't win it, it means nothing for us. So let's see," hinting at the weight of expectations resting on the shoulders of his players.
As the European finals loom, football fans eagerly wait to witness if Antony can simultaneously make history as a potential double champion. The combination of excitement surrounding the Europa League and personal stakes for the players only accentuates the drama unfolding in the lead-up to a defining moment in both clubs’ histories.
What do you think? Should United reward loanees like Rashford and Antony with medals if they contribute to the club’s success? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
