Tottenham Hotspur have ended their long wait for silverware by clinching the UEFA Europa League 2025 title with a gritty 1-0 victory in the final held at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao. The win marks Spurs’ first trophy since 2008 and their first European title in 41 years, bringing joy to fans and fulfilling a long-standing dream for the North London club.
The only goal of the final came in the 42nd minute from Brennan Johnson in a scrappy move that summed up a hard-fought contest. Johnson’s second touch—after his initial shot deflected off Luke Shaw—put Spurs ahead. Despite Manchester United dominating the stats with 16 shots and a better xG, they failed to break through Tottenham’s resolute defense.
Ange Postecoglou’s squad entered the final without a win in their last six Premier League games but showcased tactical flexibility by shifting from their usual high-press style to a more defensive setup. Spurs opted for a direct physical approach early on, with Pedro Porro playing a key role down the right flank. The team soaked up pressure after the goal and held their shape until the final whistle.
Postecoglou, who has previously achieved second-season success with Brisbane Roar Yokohama F Marinos and Celtic, delivered on his promise in his 100th game in charge. He remarked, “People can talk about our league results but this is about building something bigger. Tonight is just the beginning.”
In contrast, Manchester United’s downward spiral continued. This defeat confirmed that they will miss out on European football for only the second time in 35 years. It’s a new low for the Red Devils, who have now lost four times to Spurs in all competitions this season. Manager Ruben Amorim, who took over mid-season, has managed just 15 wins from 41 games and faces increasing pressure.
Bruno Fernandes, one of United’s most reliable players in Europe this season, struggled to impact the game and was heavily marked by Pape Matar Sarr and Rodrigo Bentancur. It was Fernandes’ intercepted pass that led to Johnson’s goal—a moment symbolic of United’s troubled campaign.
The match also highlighted United’s toothless attack. Despite having more possession and shots, clear chances were rare. Micky van de Ven and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario made key interventions to deny United’s best efforts in the 68th and 97th minutes.
Looking ahead, Tottenham now return to the UEFA Champions League next season, gaining both prestige and a near £100 million financial boost. However, Postecoglou may leave the next phase of this young squad’s development—featuring rising stars like Archie Gray and Mikey Moore—to someone else. For Manchester United, the focus turns to squad rebuilding amid financial constraints, with stars like Kobbie Mainoo or even Fernandes potentially being sold.
This final was not only a victory for Spurs but a mirror reflecting the deep challenges facing Manchester United. While one club dreams again, the other must start from scratch.
