Manchester United gears up for Europa League final amid injury returns

In Bilbao, Spain, on May 20, 2025, Manchester United prepared to face Tottenham in the Europa League final. This decisive match holds significant implications for both teams, given their current standings and the chance to secure a European title. Moreover, the final could serve as a pivotal moment for each club's future prospects. As Manchester United's coach, Ruben Amorim, noted, the return of Diogo Dalot, Leny Yoro, and Joshua Zirkzee from injuries was a promising development, as all three players participated in training and could potentially contribute to the match. However, Matthijs de Ligt remained unavailable, while Lisandro Martinez's serious knee injury further limited their options. United's season has been disappointing overall, resulting in the club sitting in 16th place in the league after suffering 18 defeats—a record for the team in the Premier League era. The club desperately seeks a European title to salvage its reputation, especially under the new ownership of Jim Ratcliffe. Conversely, Tottenham faces challenges of its own, as it currently ranks 17th in the Premier League, having also set a record with 21 losses. Coach Ange Postecoglou expressed a desire to lift the club out of its trophy drought, last achieving success in the 2008 English League Cup. Both clubs are aware that this final offers not just a trophy but a chance to regain prestige and a more favorable financial position in the Champions League. Winning could convince prospective signings to join either team. While United's new coach, Amorim, faces scrutiny over his management, Postecoglou's responsibilities have also been complicated by their underwhelming league performance, despite a decent run in Europe.