Europa League Final Previews: Manchester United and Tottenham Look to Ease Heartache at Dublin Showdown

This year’s UEFA Europa League trophy final is not just a fight for the trophy – it’s a thespian duel between two disappointing English giants seeking to restore face, dubbed by opposition football fans as “clash of clowns.”

Disastrous seasons have been experienced by both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, who will face each other on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, with a seating capacity of about 51,700.

Both clubs endure Premier League misery. They even got new managers this season, however, and neither is currently in the top five. With this cup final, both clubs can now compete for European medals and a delicious bragging right over title-hunters who have left them in the league behind.

Manchester United is enduring one of its longest Premier League droughts in years. Wishy-washy performances have plagued their campaign, their defence has been shaky, and mounting pressure on the new boss as they occupy a sub-top six place, unthinkable two years ago, but now a reality. 

But a victory in the Europa League would not only give them a Champions League berth next season but also effectively make their season numerically superior, trophy-wise, to Manchester City and Arsenal’s, as both of them failed to win major silverware this season.

Tottenham did come into this season with renewed determination under a new boss, though, and started brightly. But defence errors, injuries, and declining form from around the time of the turn in January soon eroded any chances of making the top four. Although the team themselves were thrilling to watch in attack, their failure to be solidly resistant cost them crucial points. But they now have a gilt-edged opportunity to end their 16-year trophy desolation with a European crown.

Unexpectedly, though, Manchester City and Arsenal have dominated the headlines this term so far regarding league form. However, with neither having had a big victory this term, a United or a Spurs win in Dublin would see them in hysterics. Silverware hunters, a Europa League victory would see them in a better position, regardless of where they are.

The other contains drama of threat, redemption, and high stakes, not for the trophy alone but pride, reputation, and the possibility of remaking a season of disillusionment.

Who do you think will win this trophy? Let’s know your thoughts in the comment section.