The highly anticipated final of the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League is set to take place on Wednesday at the San Mames stadium in Bilbao, featuring a clash between Premier League rivals Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur. This match is one of the most eagerly awaited finals in the tournament`s recent history, as both English sides have experienced challenging domestic seasons. The stakes are incredibly high, with the trophy also guaranteeing a coveted spot in next season`s Champions League – an opportunity only one club can seize. Furthermore, given their disappointing league positions (Manchester United are currently 16th, and Tottenham 17th in the Premier League standings), the futures of both managers could be significantly impacted by the outcome of this match.
Match and Broadcast Details
Here`s essential information regarding the UEFA Europa League final:
- Date: Wednesday, May 21
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Venue: San Mames, Bilbao, Spain
- Broadcast: Available via CBS Sports Network (TV) and Paramount+ (Live Stream)
- Odds: Tottenham +188; Draw +223; Manchester United +143
Impact on Managerial Futures
This final carries immense pressure for both benches. While reports suggest Tottenham may part ways with manager Ange Postecoglou regardless of the result, Manchester United`s situation appears more directly linked to the trophy. Ruben Amorim, who took charge in November 2024 after replacing Erik ten Hag, is reportedly hopeful of retaining his position if he guides the team to victory. For both coaches, a disappointing domestic campaign means their reputations will be heavily judged by their performance in Bilbao. Looking back, Tottenham`s last major silverware came in 2008 with a League Cup win. Both clubs have previous success in this competition under its different names; Spurs lifted the UEFA Cup in 1972 and 1984, while Manchester United won the Europa League trophy in 2017 under Jose Mourinho.
Spotlight on Andre Onana
Manchester United`s goalkeeper Andre Onana will be under scrutiny. Since his arrival from Inter in the summer of 2023 for a significant fee of around $50 million, Onana has faced inconsistent form, experiencing both highs and lows. He has yet to consistently demonstrate the form expected of a top-tier goalkeeper and has shown moments of vulnerability, such as during the Europa League quarter-finals against Lyon, where errors created difficulties. The final provides Onana with a prime opportunity to deliver a standout performance and prove his value to the team.
Tottenham`s Attacking Challenge
For Tottenham Hotspur, much of the attacking responsibility will rest on the shoulders of captain Son Heung-min. Recently returning from injury, Son`s experience and leadership are crucial, especially as manager Ange Postecoglou`s squad is hit by key absences in the attacking department. Players like Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Lucas Bergvall, and Timo Werner are all ruled out for the final. Facing Manchester United without these options will be a formidable challenge for Tottenham. Son and the available players must perform at their absolute best to try and end the club`s long trophy drought dating back to 2008.
