The highly anticipated 2024-25 UEFA Europa League final is set for Wednesday at the San Mames stadium in Bilbao, featuring an all-English clash between Manchester United and Tottenham. For these two sides, who have both endured challenging domestic campaigns, this final represents their last chance to secure a coveted spot in next season`s Champions League. The pressure isn`t just on the players; the future of both club managers is also hanging in the balance, with a loss potentially jeopardizing their positions after struggling in the league.
Will the Managers Secure Their Future?
A significant consequence of this final concerns the futures of the men in the dugouts. While reports suggest Tottenham`s Ange Postecoglou might leave regardless of the outcome, the situation for the Manchester United manager appears more directly tied to the result. Winning the trophy could significantly strengthen his position and potentially secure his job following a period of uncertainty. Both coaches` reputations, affected by inconsistent league form, face a crucial test in Bilbao. For Tottenham, victory would end a long trophy drought stretching back to their League Cup win in 2008. Both clubs have prior success in this competition: Spurs lifted the UEFA Cup in 1972 and 1984, while Manchester United triumphed in the Europa League in 2017.
Can Andre Onana Deliver in Goal?
Since arriving from Inter in the summer of 2023 for approximately $50 million, Manchester United`s goalkeeper Andre Onana has experienced a mixed tenure. Despite the significant investment, his performances have sometimes been inconsistent, and he has faced scrutiny, notably for errors that complicated matters in earlier rounds of the Europa League, such as against Lyon in the quarterfinals. The final presents a pivotal opportunity for Onana to silence critics, produce a commanding display, and justify the club`s decision to make him their number one.
Which Tottenham Attackers Will Step Up?
Tottenham faces challenges in attack due to several key injuries. While captain Son Heung-min is back after recent fitness concerns and will be crucial with his experience and leadership, manager Ange Postecoglou is without significant attacking options including Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Lucas Bergvall, and Timo Werner for the Bilbao showpiece. Overcoming Manchester United and securing the club`s first silverware since 2008 will require a determined effort from the available attacking players and a standout performance from Son.
Adrian Whitmore