The win over Tottenham will not necessarily make Manchester United's season a positive one, but it will bring a shining light and reason to be optimistic.
Instead, after losing for the fourth time this season to Tottenham, Man United's path back to the top seems longer than ever. Once again, more questions are raised than answers for the "Red Devils" and coach Ruben Amorim.
What is the identity of Man United under Amorim?
Man United's performance in Bilbao has raised familiar concerns, not only about quality but also their style. Amorim remained steadfast in his favorite 3-4-3 formation even in the final stages of the match against Tottenham.
But evidence shows that this formation is not suitable for Amorim's players. A consistent playing style has yet to emerge, and Amorim's belief in his system seems to have become too rigid. They became predictable and were held back, still keeping 3 central defenders despite Tottenham almost all of their formation at home.
Ange Postecoglou can change his principles to win at all costs and Amorim should learn that. His belief in the system has led to Man United's defeat in the most important match of the season.
Is Amorim's position threatened?
Amorim needs more time and given the scale of the problems he faces, he also deserves patience. In fact, Man United may not be able to change their head coach once more.
Of course, it would be a mistake to say that Amorim was not at fault in Bilbao. Not to mention the lineup, what about the selection of personnel? Putting Mason Mount on the field was a big mistake. Alejandro Garnacho did more in the first 5 minutes on the pitch than Mount did in the previous 70 minutes.
Postecoglou not only defeated Amorim tactically, but also won the personnel battle. The decision to start Richarlison and have Son Heung-min on the bench has proven to be completely correct.
"I haven't done anything for the fans yet, so I need a little faith at the moment. Let's wait and see. I'm always open. If the board and the fans find me unsuitable, I will leave tomorrow without compensation, but I will not resign," Amorim said after the defeat to Tottenham.
Does Man United have enough financial capacity to reform the squad?
Amorim believes the Europa League title will only help them get a summer signing. But the fact that the victory in Bilbao will be worth an estimated £100 million.
Man United may not have enough financial strength this summer to reform the squad as originally planned.
It was worrying to hear Bruno Fernandes admit this after the loss to Spurs. "If the club thinks it is time to say goodbye because they want to make money or whatever, that is the truth," said the Man United captain.
Andre Onana - turn fate or leave?
From a purely football perspective, one of Man United's worst decisions in recent years has been to replace David de Gea with Onana.
There were shining moments but they were not significant. Onana has not performed convincingly enough since moving to Old Trafford.
Man United need a new goalkeeper. But they also need at least two new strikers, a few full-backs and a number of other midfielders. Therefore, it is unclear whether the goalkeeper position is on the priority replacement list for Man United.
Is not participating in the European Cup an advantage for Man United?
For Man United, even if they have more time to rest because they do not have to participate in the European Cup, it will be difficult for them to make a significant difference without enough good players. They certainly won't get tired. But fatigue doesn't mean they're getting better.
What Man United really need is new players, and a lot of new players, to help them get out of this difficult situation. And it will be much more difficult to attract new players when the "Red Devils" are not playing in Europe.
qualifying for the Champions League is not a treatment for all of Man United's illnesses, but it will be an important step on the way back to the top.
