Uefa confirm Europa League final stance if Man United play Tottenham
The stage is set for a dramatic Europa League conclusion in Bilbao, with both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur taking significant steps toward the final after commanding first-leg victories.
United dismantled Athletic Bilbao 3-0 at San Mamés, while Spurs secured a 3-1 advantage over Norwegian underdogs Bodø/Glimt. Should both English clubs complete the job in their second legs, fans could witness a high-stakes Premier League duel on foreign soil—but one thing is certain: the final will remain in Spain, regardless of who advances.
For two clubs enduring disappointing domestic campaigns, European glory offers salvation. Manchester United sit 14th in the Premier League, their worst start in decades, while Tottenham languish in 16th despite flashes of promise under Ange Postecoglou.
A trophy would not only salvage their seasons but also secure direct entry into next season’s Champions League—a priceless reward given their current league positions.
History adds another layer of intrigue. Tottenham, trophy-less since 2008, crave silverware to validate their progress, while United seek to reignite their winning mentality under Erik ten Hag.
The two sides have already met three times this season, with Spurs completing a clean sweep of victories. A fourth encounter—this time with continental stakes—would be a blockbuster affair.
Despite the potential for an all-English final, UEFA has confirmed the match will proceed as scheduled at Bilbao’s San Mamés Stadium. The venue was selected back in 2021, alongside the decision to host the 2024 Women’s Champions League final in the Basque city.
With a capacity of 53,289, demand would far exceed supply if United and Tottenham both advance, leaving thousands of fans scrambling for tickets.
Each finalist will receive up to 15,000 tickets, while 11,000 will be available for general sale. The remainder will go to sponsors and hospitality—a familiar model that has drawn criticism in recent years, particularly during previous all-English finals in Porto (2021), Madrid (2019), and Baku (2019).
While United’s comprehensive win over Athletic Bilbao puts them in pole position, Tottenham must navigate a tricky second leg in Norway.
Bodø/Glimt’s late goal at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium ensures they still have hope, and the Arctic conditions could pose an unexpected challenge for Postecoglou’s men.
For Athletic Bilbao, the dream of a hometown final is over after a disastrous night that saw them reduced to 10 men before United’s ruthless attacking display.
The Basque club’s exit leaves the door open for an English takeover—but whether it’s one or both Premier League sides progressing, Bilbao will host what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to this season’s Europa League campaign.
As the second legs approach, the pressure intensifies. For United and Spurs, the prize is immense: not just a trophy, but a chance to rewrite the narrative of their turbulent seasons.
And for fans, the only certainty is that the final destination remains unchanged—Bilbao awaits.