The 2024-25 UEFA Europa League final is scheduled for Wednesday at the San Mames stadium in Bilbao, featuring a highly anticipated confrontation between Manchester United and Tottenham. This match brings together two prominent English clubs who have experienced challenging domestic seasons. The outcome is particularly significant as it determines which of them will secure qualification for the Champions League next season. Furthermore, the futures of both team managers could be heavily influenced by the result, especially considering their current positions near the bottom of the Premier League table – Manchester United in 16th place and Tottenham in 17th.
Key Information for the Europa League Final
- Date: Wednesday, May 21 | Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: San Mames — Bilbao, Spain
- Broadcast: Check local sports broadcasters for TV and streaming details
- Odds: Tottenham +188; Draw +223; Man United +143
Will the Coaches Survive?
There is considerable pressure on both managers going into Wednesday`s match, with their jobs potentially on the line. It is widely speculated that Tottenham`s Ange Postecoglou might depart regardless of the final`s outcome. However, Manchester United`s head coach, Ruben Amorim, faces perhaps greater uncertainty. Appointed in November 2024 as Erik ten Hag`s replacement, his long-term position at the club is reportedly tied to lifting this trophy. Given the disappointing league campaigns for both sides, this final in Bilbao is a critical moment for the reputations of both coaches. Historically, Tottenham last won a major trophy in 2008 (the League Cup). Both clubs have won this specific competition before: Spurs claimed the UEFA Cup in 1972 and 1984, while Manchester United lifted the Europa League trophy in 2017 under Jose Mourinho.
Andre Onana`s Moment?
Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has displayed inconsistent form since his arrival from Inter in the summer of 2023 for a fee around $50 million. Despite being a significant acquisition, he has not always convinced as the undisputed starting keeper, with his performances in the current 2024-25 season raising questions. Notably, errors in the Europa League quarterfinals against Lyon put United`s progression at risk. This final offers a perfect platform for Onana to deliver a stellar performance and justify the club`s investment.
Who Steps Up for Spurs` Attack?
Tottenham Hotspur`s captain and leading striker, Son Heung-min, is expected to provide experience and leadership, having recently returned to the starting lineup after a period of injury. However, manager Ange Postecoglou`s attacking options are significantly depleted, with key players like Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Lucas Bergvall, and Timo Werner all ruled out for the final in Bilbao. Securing their first silverware since 2008 will be a challenging task for Tottenham and will require Son and the remaining attackers to perform at their absolute best against Manchester United.
Dominic Ashworth