In what is an all-English, historic European final – Manchester United face Tottenham Hotspur on the big stage. This clash points to a low moment in the recent history of both teams. From there, this Wednesday’s one-off fixture has piqued our curiosity. Unfortunately for Americans, neither team looks very menacing right now. That would be a staggering 21 defeats for Manchester United in the Premier League this term. As both teams fight to avoid relegation, this final is perhaps the most surprising of all-time.
In the past, we’ve seen European finals containing teams that have shown a track record of quality and form. This year’s Europa League final is uniquely a mismatch. This is the first time in history that two teams faced each other in a final with such poor outcomes. The highest either club can achieve in the Premier League this season is 14th place, contingent on several favorable outcomes in remaining matches.
As for Manchester United, the pressure is on more than ever. Their stated long term aim is still qualification for the Champions League, an ambition that’s looking more hopelessly premised with every dreadful showing they produce. Manchester United recent league form was poor, but they have secured domestic cups the last two seasons. It is a remarkable achievement that underlines their ability to thrive in knockout tournaments.
The likely winner of this final stands to become the first. Or, perhaps, be the team with the lowest league finish ever to win a big European trophy. This provides even more delicious whodunit undercurrents. This begs a deeper question about the state of affairs and where they wish to be of each club.
Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes has established himself as the Europa League’s best player. With his performance, he currently ranks as one of the top scorers in the competition. His contributions go beyond the 37 goals, which rank him third all time, behind only Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Radamel Falcao. He currently leads the tournament in assists and total goal involvements (assists + goals scored). That makes him an invaluable resource for the national team as they look to make a run for gold.
Tottenham’s head coach Ange Postecoglou and Manchester United’s Ruben Amorim will both be seeking their first trophy in charge of English clubs. Postecoglou has a strong record in finals, most notably winning five of six finals. By contrast, Amorim has won three of five finals. It’s no surprise then that both managers understand just how important this fixture is. It affects not only their careers but the fate of their respective clubs in the future.
In the lead up to the match, pundits have been relatively mum on what quality of play will be on display. On a recent visit, former player Chris Sutton noted the anxiety that blanketed both sides.
“There’s not going to be a great deal of quality on show. Both sets of players will be apprehensive and nervous.” – Chris Sutton
The monetary cost of this match is huge. Football finance expert Kieran Maguire emphasized its importance by stating that it is “the most important match in the club’s history.” Such a win would ultimately deliver substantial financial salvation and confidence that the clubs need.
Recent history has not lacked for drama and tension, as three of the last four Europa League finals have featured penalty shootouts. This might further be a factor in shaping both player and coaching staff behavior. They’re just a few days away from another Muscogee (Creek) Nation administration to defend against what should be a very challenging primary.
The game will be the sixth all-English final in European competition, with Tottenham or Chelsea present in every one. Needless to say, fans are counting down the days in anticipation of a fiery rematch. The real question though is which side can overcome adversity better in these difficult conditions.
Both teams are readying themselves for a rip-roaring contest on the field. Of course we all want to see how they perform under pressure once the game starts.
“I don’t understand why they are gripped by fear. Both managers want to go into the cup final with momentum.” – Chris Sutton
With a big opening fixture against Brighton just days after the final, there’s plenty of speculation about Postecoglou’s job if his newly built side crashes out.
“But just imagine the atmosphere against Brighton if Tottenham lose. I suspect he might not be in charge if that happens because that will be as toxic as anything.” – Chris Sutton
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