How Ruben Amorim inspired Man Utd stars to pull off epic Lyon comeback

Man Utd manager Ruben Amorim disclosed that the club's legendary comeback against Bayern Munich served as motivation for their remarkable turnaround against Lyon. The Red Devils seemed destined for a Europa League exit after trailing 4-2 to the French team, who were down to 10 men.

However, Bruno Fernandes reignited hope with a penalty, followed by goals at the death from Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire, resulting in an incredible comeback. This sent Amorim into wild celebrations along the Old Trafford touchline.

The victory not only secures United's place in the Europa League semi-finals but also keeps their Champions League aspirations alive for the upcoming season.

Post-match, Amorim revealed that iconic comebacks from United's rich history were the catalyst for their latest resurgence. "It was hard and I was watching again, 1999, the commentary [vs Bayern Munich], to have some inspiration for this moment," he told TNT Sports.

"It was a great night. I think the team was tired and you feel it during the game and then 2-2 with one more player. It changed everything and you think it's over but here, it's never over."

Asked if he still believed a win was possible after Lyon's comeback, he replied: "I felt that here everything is possible and then you feel the environment and then after the 4-3, the penalty from Bruno, you feel like we can change the game."

Amorim's smile was clear for all to see as he watched replays of Maguire's decisive goal - an experience the coach regards as a career highlight. He remarked: "When you saw the goals of Kobbie and Maguire, the sound of the stadium was the best sound ever. You want to keep that.

"I just want to keep that sound because it's the best sound. I look at the fans and they are crazy. I feel sorry for the people that had to leave at the 2-4 because of the traffic."

As United set their sights on a battle with Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals, and a coveted Champions League slot, an interesting side note arises as the final will be held in the same venue. When asked about his team's chances, Amorim confidently responded: "Yes. You can see the stadium, everyone can believe that is possible.

"We have to be a little bit lucky with the injuries to reach that with some players. It's going to be tough. The last final I had in my career was in Turin and the semi-final was in Turin so we lost the final so we can change that."