The stage is set. Bilbao will host a massive all-English showdown as Tottenham take on Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final.
With both clubs hungry for silverware and European qualification on the line, expect drama, grit, and possibly history.
Spurs could make history
For Tottenham, this final is a shot at ending a long wait for European glory. Their last continental success came in 1984. Manager Ange Postecoglou, in only his second season at the helm, has often reminded fans of his habit: “I always win things in my second year.”
Now, he’s just one game away from delivering on that promise. Spurs stormed into the final with an emphatic 5-1 aggregate win over Bodø/Glimt, showcasing a well-rounded team performance and a sharp eye for goal.
Dominic Solanke, the club’s standout striker this season, has scored in three straight knockout games and will be key again in Bilbao. At the back, goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario has kept things tidy, only needing to make two saves in that semi-final second leg to secure a clean sheet.
Tottenham will also take confidence from their head-to-head record this season against Manchester United. They’ve beaten the Red Devils three times, including a memorable 3-0 win at Old Trafford and a thrilling 4-3 League Cup victory. The message is clear: they know how to get it done against this opponent.
United’s return to familiar ground
For Manchester United, the Europa League final is both a shot at redemption and a return to familiar territory. The final takes place in Bilbao, where United recently beat Athletic Club 1-0 in a knockout match, a venue that could offer a psychological boost.
United have been in ruthless attacking form.
They’ve netted 12 goals across their last three Europa League games, with Bruno Fernandes leading the scoring charts. The Portuguese playmaker has been in sensational form, backed by Rasmus Højlund and the return of creative options like Mason Mount and Amad Diallo.
This final also carries echoes of past European highs and lows. United lifted the Europa League trophy in 2017 but suffered heartbreak in the 2021 final, losing on penalties to Villarreal. For Bruno Fernandes, Luke Shaw, and others who played in that painful loss, this is a shot at redemption—and a much-needed ticket back into European competition next season.
What’s at stake?
The Europa League trophy isn’t just a beautiful piece of silverware, it’s the heaviest UEFA trophy, weighing in at 15kg. But more importantly, the winner secures a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League group stage.
For both clubs, this is essential. Neither Tottenham nor Manchester United had the smoothest domestic campaigns, and winning in Bilbao may be their only way to avoid a season without European football.
Key battles to watch
Dominic Solanke vs United’s Backline: Solanke’s movement and finishing have been lethal. Can United’s defense, which has looked shaky at times, hold him off?
Bruno Fernandes vs Tottenham’s Midfield: Fernandes is the creative engine and has been the difference-maker in many matches. If Spurs can disrupt his rhythm, they’ll improve their chances.
Postecoglou vs Amorim: While Postecoglou has won all of his previous battles against Ruben Amorim this season, finals are a different beast. Amorim will want to avoid a fourth straight loss to the Australian manager.
Who needs it more?
This is a hard one. Tottenham are desperate to end their trophy drought. United are desperate to avoid another year of disappointment. In truth, both clubs need this win badly, not just for silverware, but for pride, momentum, and survival at the top level.
So, what should you expect in this final?
Expect goals. Expect tension. Expect a battle of two teams who have everything to lose and even more to prove.