‘Lads, it’s Tottenham’ – Why Manchester United will win the Europa League final | OneFootball

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson once used the infamous words ‘lads, it’s Tottenham‘ to motivate his players in a team talk before a match against them.

United have declined since Ferguson retired, and the gap between the two sides has virtually diminished.

This is reflected by their current Premier League positions, with Ruben Amorim’s team sitting in 16th and Spurs a point below them in 17th.

The two sides have had dreadful league campaigns, but they have the opportunity to end their season on a high by winning the Europa League final on Wednesday.

Tottenham will fancy their chances of winning the showpiece event in Bilbao, having already beaten their Manchester rivals three times this season.

However, the Red Devils are fancied to get the job done.

Injuries to key players

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou recently confirmed that Dejan Kulusevski has suffered a knee injury, ruling him out for the next few months.

Since the Sweden international has been crucial in their victories over United this season, his absence will be a significant blow for Spurs.

They have already lost James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall to season-ending injuries, which leaves Rodrigo Bentancur, Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr as the only three fit senior midfielders.

United also have doubts over the availability of Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Diogo Dalot, but they have more depth in attack and midfield.

Semi-final victory at San Mames

Things were expected to be difficult for Manchester United in the away leg of the semi-final tie against Athletic Bilbao.

But they were not daunted by the vociferous crowd as they recorded a 3-0 win after a brilliant double from Bruno Fernandes.

Their success at the difficult venue should serve as a big psychological boost as they will be accustomed to the pitch and atmosphere.

Tottenham have had an impressive European campaign, but the lack of familiarity with the conditions will be a disadvantage for them.

Spurs’ 17-year trophy drought

Tottenham have not lifted a trophy since February 2008, when they defeated Chelsea in the League Cup final.

By contrast, Manchester United won the FA Cup last year, beating arch-rivals Manchester City in the final at Wembley Stadium.

They will be under greater pressure to win the Europa League, which could help United.

The Red Devils’ experience in European finals also gives them an edge, with the club winning the Europa League in 2017 and reaching the final four years ago.