Manchester United and Tottenham are set to clash in the Europa League final in Bilbao on Wednesday, with both clubs desperately seeking a place in next season’s Champions League following disappointing Premier League campaigns. United, sitting 16th in the table, and Spurs, just one spot above the relegation zone in 17th, have endured a combined 39 league losses this season. Despite their struggles, one of these teams will leave the San Mames Stadium with more than just a European title – they stand to earn a financial windfall worth up to £100 million ($134 million).
Ruben Amorim, in his first year at Manchester United, acknowledged that a win wouldn’t immediately solve the club’s deeper issues, but it could significantly improve the atmosphere around the team. He emphasized that while Champions League qualification is important, the club’s future isn’t solely dependent on it. However, football finance expert Kieran Maguire pointed out that the prize money from the Champions League would be a crucial boost for United, especially with the club’s financial challenges.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou’s position seems uncertain, regardless of the final outcome. Though Spurs haven’t won a major trophy since 2008, Postecoglou remains hopeful that lifting the Europa League could be a defining moment for the club. With the pressure mounting on both teams, the final promises to be a thrilling and unpredictable contest. United will lean on captain Bruno Fernandes and experienced midfielder Casemiro, while Spurs will face the challenge without key players like Lucas Bergvall, James Maddison, and Dejan Kulusevski.
Both teams have shown resilience in the Europa League, with United securing a dominant 7-1 aggregate victory over Athletic Bilbao and Spurs overcoming Bodo/Glimt 5-1. The stage is set for a dramatic showdown with major consequences for the future of both clubs.
