The UEFA Europa League final for the 2024-25 season is scheduled to take place on Wednesday at the San Mames stadium in Bilbao. This highly anticipated match will feature a clash between two English giants, Manchester United and Tottenham.
Both clubs have endured disappointing domestic campaigns, finding themselves in the lower half of the Premier League standings (16th and 17th place respectively). As a result, securing victory in this final offers the only route for either side to qualify for next season`s prestigious Champions League competition. Furthermore, the outcome is expected to have significant repercussions for the futures of both head coaches, whose positions may be under threat following their challenging seasons.
Key Match Details
The final will be held at the San Mames in Bilbao, Spain.
Odds
According to the provided odds, the match is closely contested: Tottenham +188; Draw +223; Manchester United +143.
Storylines to Watch
Managerial Pressure
The final carries considerable weight for both managers. While speculation suggests Ange Postecoglou might depart Tottenham regardless of the result, Manchester United`s Ruben Amorim, who took over from Erik ten Hag in November 2024, is widely believed to have a better chance of retaining his job if he lifts the trophy. The result in Bilbao will undoubtedly shape the perception of both coaches after their difficult campaigns. Notably, Tottenham`s last major silverware was the 2008 League Cup. Both clubs have won the UEFA Cup/Europa League previously: Spurs in 1972 and 1984, and United in 2017.
Onana`s Performance
Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has experienced mixed form since his approximately $50 million move from Inter in the summer of 2023. Despite the significant investment, he hasn`t consistently displayed the commanding presence expected of United`s number one. His performance drew scrutiny during the Europa League quarterfinals against Lyon, where errors caused concern. The final presents Onana with an ideal opportunity to deliver a crucial, error-free performance and demonstrate his value to the club.
Tottenham`s Attacking Challenge
Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min recently returned from injury and will be vital in leading the attack. However, Spurs are hampered by significant absences in their forward line, with key players Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Lucas Bergvall, and Timo Werner all ruled out. This makes the task of breaking down Manchester United`s defence particularly difficult for Tottenham and Son as they aim to end the club`s trophy drought dating back to 2008.
