The 2025 UEFA Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur kicks off today, Wednesday, May 21, at 8:00 PM BST (9:00 PM Nigerian time) at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao. Both teams, despite underwhelming domestic seasons—United finishing 16th and Spurs 17th in the Premier League—have a golden opportunity to redeem their campaigns with European silverware and secure a spot in next season’s Champions League.
Match Preview: What to Expect
Recent Form & Head-to-Head
Tottenham have dominated Manchester United this season, winning all three encounters: a 3–0 victory at Old Trafford, a 1–0 win at home, and a 4–3 triumph in the Carabao Cup quarter-final .
Manchester United, despite domestic struggles, have excelled in Europe, remaining unbeaten en route to the final and showcasing resilience, notably in their dramatic comeback against Lyon in the quarter-finals .
Tactical Insights
Manchester United under manager Rúben Amorim, are formidable on the counterattack, exploiting spaces behind defenses. However, they have shown vulnerability to set-pieces, conceding nearly 25% of their league goals from such situations .
Tottenham, led by Ange Postecoglou, employ an aggressive pressing style, which has waned in intensity as the season progressed. Their high defensive line can be susceptible to quick transitions, having conceded eight goals from fast breaks in European play.
Team News
Tottenham will be without key creative players James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski due to injuries. Captain Heung-min Son is expected to return from a foot injury, providing a significant boost to their attacking options .
Manchester United face defensive challenges with Lisandro Martínez ruled out. However, Matthijs de Ligt is expected to recover from a knee issue in time for the final .
Stakes
Beyond the prestige of lifting the Europa League trophy, the winner secures a place in next season’s Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup. Financially, the Champions League spot could be worth over $100 million, a significant incentive for both clubs .
Despite both teams’ domestic disappointments, this final represents a pivotal moment. Manchester United aim to add a seventh European trophy to their cabinet, while Tottenham seek their first continental title since 1984. With high stakes and contrasting styles, fans can anticipate an intense and closely contested match in Bilbao
