UEFA Europa League Final: Manchester United vs Tottenham – All You Need to Know
All eyes will be on the San Mames Stadium in Bilbao as Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur face off in the UEFA Europa League final on Wednesday, May 21 (Thursday, May 22 at 12:30 AM IST). With both Premier League giants enduring dismal domestic seasons, this final presents a golden opportunity to end the campaign on a high and secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
A Shot at Redemption
Manchester United and Tottenham enter the final under intense pressure. Both clubs have underperformed this season in the Premier League, sitting in the bottom half of the table. United are 16th with 39 points, while Spurs are just behind in 17th, a single point adrift. Despite their struggles on the domestic front, both teams have shone in Europe, making their way to the final with determination and resilience.
For Manchester United, the road to the final has been especially dramatic. Erik ten Hag’s side pulled off a stunning comeback against Lyon in the quarterfinals and then dispatched Athletic Bilbao in the semis without conceding a goal. Notably, United remain unbeaten in European competitions this season.
Tottenham, managed by Ange Postecoglou, have also impressed in the knockout stages, crushing Bodo/Glimt over two legs in the semifinals. While their league form has been erratic, Spurs’ European campaign has offered a glimpse of their attacking strength and tactical discipline.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Manchester United have had the upper hand against Spurs. Out of 176 meetings, United have won 90, with 43 games ending in draws and 43 in favour of Tottenham. However, this season has told a different story. Tottenham have defeated United three times, including a league double and a knockout victory in the League Cup—an edge they’ll be hoping to maintain in the final.
Team News
Manchester United have received a triple injury boost ahead of the final. Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, and Diogo Dalot were all seen training with the first team. Zirkzee’s return is especially encouraging, as he was previously expected to miss the remainder of the season.
However, United will be without Matthijs de Ligt, who picked up an injury in their recent clash against Brentford and is undergoing individual training. Long-term absentee Lisandro Martinez remains sidelined due to an ACL injury.
Tottenham, on the other hand, are missing some key players. Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, and Lucas Bergvall are all ruled out. Maddison and Kulusevski are out for the season, while Bergvall has been confirmed to miss the final. However, there’s good news with the return of star forward Son Heung-Min, along with defenders Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.
What’s at Stake
Aside from lifting a European trophy, the stakes are massive. The winner will earn automatic qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League, offering a lifeline after a disappointing domestic campaign.
Match Timing and Broadcast Details
The UEFA Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur will kick off at 12:30 AM IST on Thursday, May 22. The match will be played at the San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, Spain.
Fans in India can catch the live telecast on the Sony Sports Network. The match will also be live streamed on the SonyLIV app and website.
With pride, European glory, and a Champions League spot on the line, this is one final you don’t want to miss.
IT.
