Preview for Tottenham v Manchester United

Two teams that have had appalling league seasons have the chance to end it among the cream of European football when Tottenham and Manchester United face off in Bilbao.

The winners of the Europa League qualify for next season’s Champions League, creating a back door to the top table that arguably neither of these clubs deserve.

It does present a remarkable opportunity for both Spurs and United, though, and their head coaches.

Ange Postecoglou and Ruben Amorim have struggled this season, coming under fire for long spells of poor form domestically with European competition providing respite.

Defeat at San Mames, particularly for Postecoglou given he has had more time to produce better results, would mean goodwill from fans would wane while fingers in the boardroom would twitch even harder.

It’s not just on the field where this matters more than most games.

The economic boost offered by playing in the Champions League would have a huge impact, particularly at United whose attempts at streamlining following the takeover from Jim Ratcliffe have been severe and, to many fans, cruel with many long-serving staff laid off.

“Financially, it’s the most important match in the club’s history,” football finance expert Kieran Maguire told the BBC.

“Champions League participation is crucial, because it could generate over £100m from tickets, broadcast money, and sponsor bonuses.”

Not only that, but the lure of playing in the Champions League would mean Amorim and the club’s recruitment team could shop in a different market over the summer.

The United squad needs an overhaul but without elite European competition it is unlikely they will be able to attract the players to truly rebuild in the way Amorim would like.

If you do one thing today, make sure you watch this. pic.twitter.com/V7uCjISGmb

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 19, 2025

Team News for Tottenham v Manchester United

Postecoglou fielded a weakened team at Aston Villa on Friday night but captain Son Heung-min started in a bid to prove his fitness after a foot injury.

The South Korean could retain his place, particularly with Dejan Kulusevski sidelined along with James Maddison.

Lucas Bergvall has been pictured in training but it would be a surprise if the Swede is fit enough to feature.

United have worries defensively with Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro carrying knocks.

Diogo Dalot is also a major doubt but Ayden Heaven is fit after making a surprise appearance against Chelsea on Friday.

Stats for Tottenham v Manchester United

• There have been fewer than 3 goals scored in total in each of Tottenham Hotspur’s last 4 games
• There has been a penalty in 57% of Tottenham Hotspur’s Europa League games this season
• Dominic Solanke has scored in 36% of Europa League games this season for Tottenham Hotspur

Prediction for Tottenham v Manchester United

There has been a sense of ‘name on the cup’ about United’s run to the final: the incredible late comeback against Lyon, Athletic Bilbao being reduced to 10 men early in the semi-final, etc

However, whenever you think things are going the way of this United team they seem to make a mess of it.

Both teams’ seasons have been building to this, so perhaps expect a nervy game with plenty of frantic energy and mistakes.

We’re going for Tottenham to edge it.

Prediction: Tottenham 2-1 Manchester United