Manchester United fans haven’t had a lot to shout about this season.
Yet, amid the frustration of what will be their worst-ever Premier League campaign, they have found solace in Europe.
Heading into Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second-leg against Lyon, the Red Devils had won 8, drawn 4, and lost 0.
It looked like that 0 would become 1 after 113 minutes of thrilling, tumultuous football at Old Trafford.
What happened in the next 7 minutes befitted the arena they call the Theatre of Dreams.
Having led the tie 4-2 at half-time, Ruben Amorim’s side succumbed to Lyon’s second-half onslaught to send the match to extra-time.
Despite playing with 10 men, the fearless visitors took the lead in the 104th minute. Five minutes later, they led 6-4.
Then a Bruno Fernandes penalty goes in, and Old Trafford senses that not all is done, that there may still be something worth fighting for in the drought of 2024/25.
Five minutes go by, six minutes go by, and then Kobbie Mainoo receives the ball in the penalty area. Bedlam. 6-6.
Amid the mayhem of the past 15 minutes, Harry Maguire has been playing up front for Manchester United. Harry Maguire is a centre-back.
But when the Sheffield stallion was found at the back post one minute later, he’d never looked more like a centre-forward in his life.
Bang. Delivered first-class from the kernel of Harry Maguire’s forehead, the ball nestles into the net, and Manchester United still have something to play for this season.
Seldom has Old Trafford been so loud
Credit where it's due. The atmosphere tonight at Anfield has been superb. One of those proper European nights under the lights.
Bit weird that they sang everything in French tho.
🚨 | BREAKING #mufc statement confirms further job cuts.
"Manchester United is to transform its corporate structure as part of a series of additional measures to improve the club’s financial sustainability and enhance operational efficiency.
"The transformation plan aims to return the club to profitability after five consecutive years of losses since 2019. This will create a more solid financial platform from which the club can invest in men’s and women’s football success and improved infrastructure.
"As part of these measures, the club anticipates that approximately 150-200 jobs may be made redundant, subject to a consultation process with employees. These would be in addition to the 250 roles removed last year."