Tottenham Hotspur Shatter Man United’s Dreams in Europa League Final

Tottenham Hotspur ended a decades-long wait for European silverware after defeating Manchester United 1-0 in the UEFA Europa League final at San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

Brennan Johnson was the match-winner for Spurs, scoring in the first half to deliver the club’s first major European title since the 1984 UEFA Cup. This victory not only secured silverware for the North London side but also booked them a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Brennan Johnson’s Goal Ends United’s Unbeaten Run

Brennan Johnson, who had impressed throughout the tournament, struck with precision to give Tottenham the lead before halftime. Despite multiple efforts in the second half, Erik ten Hag’s men were unable to equalize — marking the end of Manchester United’s unbeaten run in this season’s Europa League.

The Red Devils came into the final with high hopes, but were repeatedly denied by Tottenham’s disciplined defensive line and failed to capitalize on crucial opportunities through Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and Rasmus Højlund.

United’s Champions League hopes crushed

Manchester United, aiming to salvage a trophy from an underwhelming season, were dealt a major blow. A win would have guaranteed a return to the Champions League, but the defeat ended those hopes, leaving the Red Devils trophyless for the 2024–25 campaign.

Manager Erik ten Hag, who had guided United through an unbeaten Europa League run up to the final, now faces intense scrutiny. Despite dominating possession in the second half, United lacked sharpness in front of goal, with forwards Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Højlund unable to convert key chances.

Spurs end a 41-year European trophy drought

This win marks a historic moment for Tottenham Hotspur, whose last European triumph came over four decades ago. Under the guidance of head coach Ange Postecoglou, Spurs have displayed tactical maturity and resilience throughout the tournament — with this final being their crowning moment.

Postecoglou’s decision to trust younger players like Johnson and Pape Matar Sarr paid off handsomely, while veteran leadership from Heung-Min Son and Cristian Romero provided the stability needed on the big stage.

What’s next for both clubs?

• Tottenham Hotspur will now shift focus to strengthening their squad for the 2025/26 Champions League campaign.

• Manchester United must regroup quickly, with questions swirling about Ten Hag’s future and the club’s summer transfer strategy.