This Wednesday at the San Mames stadium in Bilbao, Manchester United and Tottenham will contest the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League final. This fixture is highly anticipated, pitting two major English clubs against each other after domestically underwhelming seasons. For both teams, securing victory and lifting the trophy is the sole remaining path to qualify for next season`s Champions League. Furthermore, the result is widely seen as potentially pivotal for the futures of both head coaches, given their current league positions of 16th (Manchester United) and 17th (Tottenham).
Are the Managers` Jobs on the Line?
The pressure is significant on both benches. While speculation suggests Tottenham`s Ange Postecoglou might be set to depart regardless of the outcome, the stakes appear higher for Manchester United`s Ruben Amorim. Having taken charge in November 2024, replacing Erik ten Hag, Amorim`s long-term position is reportedly undecided internally, and winning the Europa League could be crucial for him to remain. A disappointing season for both clubs means this final could significantly impact the reputations of both managers and influence decisions about their future leadership.
Can Andre Onana Provide Stability?
Manchester United`s goalkeeper Andre Onana has experienced an inconsistent spell since joining the club in the summer of 2023 for approximately $50 million from Inter Milan. Despite being a major investment, he has not consistently demonstrated the form expected of United`s starting keeper. His performances throughout the 2024-25 campaign have sometimes been shaky, including errors in the Europa League quarterfinals against Lyon that created anxious moments. The final presents a critical opportunity for Onana to deliver a commanding, error-free performance and justify the club`s faith in him.
Which Tottenham Attacker Will Step Up?
Tottenham Hotspur will heavily rely on the experience and leadership of captain Son Heung-min, especially as he recently returned to the starting lineup after injury. However, Ange Postecoglou`s attacking options are severely depleted for the final in Bilbao. Key players like Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Lucas Bergvall, and Timo Werner are all reported to be unavailable. This makes the task against Manchester United particularly challenging for Spurs. Ending their long wait for a trophy, stretching back to the 2008 League Cup victory, will require a heroic effort from the available attacking players, spearheaded by Son.
