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    Man Utd vs Tottenham – Europa League final LIVE SCORE: Build up as rivals bid for European glory in Bilbao – updates

    MANCHESTER UNITED and Tottenham have one last chance to end their torrid campaigns with glory as they face off in TONIGHT’S mouthwatering Europa League final!Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim is on course to record United’s lowest-ever Premier League finish during his debut season at the helm – currently 16th following a recent 1-0 loss to Chelsea.But, despite that, Amorim incredibly has the chance to secure United their first bit of European silverware since 2017.However, under-fire Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou promised that he always ‘delivers a trophy in his second season’ and will be desperate to end Spurs’ 17-year trophy drought.With Champions League qualification for next season also up for grabs, this has all the ingredients to be a classic affair.Kick-off time: 8pm BSTTV channel: TNT Sports 1Live stream: Discovery+Man Utd starting team: To followTottenham starting team: To followGET EITHER SIDE TO WIN THE EUROPA LEAGUE AT 40/1 WITH PARIMATCHFollow ALL the action from the Europa League final with our live blog below…Road to BilbaoMan Utd have probably had the trickier of routes to the final, beating Real Sociedad and Lyon before knocking out final hosts Athletic Bilbao in the semis.Spurs recorded narrow victories over AZ Alkmaar and Frankfurt in the last 16 and quarter-finals, respectively.But Ange Postecoglou’s men booked their spot in the final in style with a 5-1 aggregate win over Bodo/Glimt in the semis.Copy linkCopiedTriple boost for AmorimManchester United were handed a triple boost with the returns of Diogo Dalot, Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirzee.The trio were included in the Red Devils’ matchday squad for tonight’s Europa League final yesterday.On the availability of the stars, Ruben Amorim said: “They recovered quite well, they pushed, of course we have to respect the feeling of the player, we pushed a little bit because they wanted to be part of the team.”It’s a very good sign. They are limited in the minutes (they can play) but they can help us to win the game.”Credit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedNo invite for Ten HagFormer Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly not been invited to tonight’s Europa League final.The Dutchman led the Red Devils to the Europa League after winning the 2023/24 FA Cup.Ten Hag was also in charge of three matches during United’s league phase campaign, before he was sacked and replaced by Ruben Amorim last November.It remains to be seen if Ten Hag, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Marcus Rashford will receive a medal for their involvement in the early part of the Europa League.Unlike Ten Hag, Louis van Gaal was invited to the 2017 Europa League final, despite his sacking on the back of winning the FA Cup in 2016.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedDevil in detailThe position of Bruno Fernandes against a depleted Tottenham midfield is the key to Manchester United winning the Europa League.Amorim has a conundrum – whether to play his skipper in one of the No10 positions or deeper in his midfield two.United must trust Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte in the final so Fernandes can be used in a free role further up the pitch.When he has played as one of the No10s, he is expected to run in-behind and stretch defences.But this does not suit his game and, against Micky van de Ven, is a waste of time.Amorim must ditch that and let his most complete player have freedom, drifting out the structure to give Spurs a headache.Copy linkCopiedLocals getting amongst itCredit: GettyCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedThe big sixSIX Premier League teams will be able to qualify for next season’s Champions League!UEFA awards the two leagues with the best set of collective results in European competitions with an extra Champions League spot.And Arsenal’s 3-0 quarter-final win over 15-time champions Real Madrid in April confirmed that the Premier League would get one of these spots.Meaning that finishing fifth in the Prem would earn you a place in next year’s Champions League.But five qualification spots became six a couple of weeks back as Manchester United and Tottenham set up their Europa League final showdown in Bilbao.This ensures that an English team will win the Europa League and therefore claim a place in Europe’s premier competition next season.Copy linkCopiedUnited forced to make change to kitTottenham have been drawn as the home team for the Europa League final, which means they will wear their all-Lilywhite shirt with navy blue sleeves, paired with white shorts and white socks.In domestic competitions, Spurs usually wear navy shorts, but due to a European tradition dating back to 1961, the North London outfit have opted for white shorts this evening.Man Utd will don their red home shirts, but are forced to change their more customary white shorts.The Red Devils will pair their iconic strip with black shorts and black socks – the same combination they wore in the last-16 away leg at Real Sociedad.Spurs’ goalkeeper will wear a yellow strip while Man Utd’s shot stopper will be in all green.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedA familiar face on stageFormer Tottenham midfielder Sandro is on stage in the Spurs fan zone in Bilbao.The Brazilian is belting out “glory, glory Tottenham Hotspur” to the delight of the faithful.Can the North Londoners live up to the chant and claim glory this evening?Credit: PACopy linkCopiedAtmosphere buildingCredit: PACredit: PACopy linkCopiedSuited and bootedManchester United players prepared for the Europa League final by getting fitted with £1,000 Paul Smith suits.United have a long tradition of wearing smart outfits before a final, dating back to the glory days under Sir Alex Ferguson.Last year they were suited and booted before winning the FA Cup against Manchester City.And the Red Devils have now had new ones forged by bespoke tailoring outfit Paul Smith.Their partnership dates back to 2008 and, according to the Paul Smith website, “is still going strong.”Copy linkCopiedHighlights from the legends matchHere are some shots of the thrilling match which saw Basque beat the UEFA legends on penalties ahead of tonight’s final.Can you spot some of your favourite players?Copy linkCopiedGunning for itAn Arsenal fan received a torrent of abuse after walking through Tottenham fans in Bilbao wearing a Gunners shirt.Spurs supporters have taken over the Spanish city in preparation for the Europa League final.Thousands are in Bilbao, many without tickets, and there is a party atmosphere with songs being sung and flares being set off.One brave Arsenal fan decided to have some fun with a contingent of Tottenham fans, brazenly strolling through a crowd with an Gunners shirt on.The Spurs fans reacted by abusing the supporter, singing: “W*****! W*****!W*****!”This surely must have been a dare?!Copy linkCopiedWhen the Spurs go marching inEven more chaos from Tottenham fans in Bilabo.This is shaping up to be some clash!Copy linkCopiedIs this the Zway?Felix Zwayer will be the man in the middle for TONIGHT’S huge Europa League final encounter between rivals Manchester United and Tottenham.Here is everything you need to know about the referee who received a six-month ban for his involvement in a match-fixing scandal.He made his Bundesliga debut in 2012 and soon become a regular fixture in their matches.In 2005, his career took a hit when he found himself involved in a match-fixing scandal. It was revealed that he accepted a €300 bribe from referee Robert Hoyzer, who was involved in a larger match-fixing scandal at the time in Germany.Felix was banned from refereeing for six months by the German Football Association (DFB) as a result of his involvement.Copy linkCopiedUnited’s alternative parade plansIf United do get the opportunity to rejoice in Europa League glory, the chiefs of the club are reportedly planning to celebrate with a barbecue instead.However, the BBQ could be even less glamorous than it sounds – as major building work is taking place at Carrington.It’s understood the event – for players, staff and their families – would be the day after the final.This will come as a real shame to United fans who haven’t seen an open-top bus parade since the special occasion which heralded the Red Devils’ 20th Prem title and the retirement of manager Sir Alex Ferguson after his golden reign of 27 years.Copy linkCopiedFeast your eyes on thisManchester United fans are flocking to the food court and the names of the burgers are incredible!Copy linkCopiedBus terminates hereManchester United fans have been left devastated after finding out that there will be NO open-top bus parade should their club win the Europa League final – but there’s an alternative plan.After tonight’s final, the Red Devils finish their Prem campaign at home to Aston Villa on Sunday week.Then comes a gruelling 15-hour flight to Asia for money-spinning tour games in Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong on May 28 and 30.So United will have to wait longer for another open-top bus parade – having not held one since 2013.Credit: AP:Associated PressCopy linkCopiedFlares and footballUnited fans continue to flock the streets and make their voices heard ahead of tonight’s Europa League final thriller.You can barely tell what colour the sky is.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd’s incredible omensThe Red Devils beat Ajax 2-0 in Stockholm eight years ago, courtesy of goals by Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.On that occasion they were managed by a Portuguese in Jose Mourinho, who had replaced a sacked FA Cup-winning Dutchman in Louis van Gaal.Amorim is a Portuguese boss and replaced sacked Dutchman Ten Hag, who lifted the FA Cup last season…Speaking of Mourinho, the former United boss won his first European trophy on May 21, 2003 – at the age of 40 years, three months and 24 days.Tonight’s final will also take place on May 21, with Amorim just one day younger than Mourinho was.In addition to this, United’s rivals Manchester City last went trophyless in 2017.By losing to Palace on Saturday, Pep Guardiola’s side were condemned to their first season without silverware since the 2016-17 campaign.Copy linkCopiedTottenham’s amazing omensIn March, Newcastle upset the odds to beat Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final – earning their first silverware since lifting the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup in 1969.And just last week, Italian side Bologna won the Coppa Italia – beating AC Milan 1-0 in Rome to end a 51-year wait for a trophy.Former Tottenham hero Harry Kane recently won the Bundesliga at the second time of asking, scoring 26 goals along the way to earning the first trophy of his career.Most recently, Crystal Palace upset Manchester City in the FA Cup final to lift the first major silverware in their entire history.It’s been the season of fresh trophy winners – and Spurs will be hoping to join the party by earning their third Europa League triumph, having won its former iteration, the Uefa Cup, in 1971 and 1984.Copy linkCopiedViews from SunSport’s Dave Courtnadge in BilbaoAnd the boys from the Basque country have done the double… snatching the shoot-out 6-5.Even the keepers had a shot.. and, bless him, ex- United keeper Tomasz Kuszczak showed why he’s probably best between the sticks.It was great fun though, and despite Jesus Navas losing, he’ll be happy after scooping the man of the match award. He was pretty tasty to be fair and would have got my vote…We managed to speak to the two ex-Man Utd stars on show and they gave us their predictions for tonightNani said ‘United have to win’ and when pushed on whether they will, he said ‘YES’.Tomasz Kuszczak was a bit more specific with his forecast. The 2008 Champions League winner boldly tipped his old side to win 3-1. Not long now until we find out…Copy linkCopiedViews from SunSport’s Dave Courtnadge in BilbaoIt’s finished 15-12 to the Basque legends, and I think most would agree that’s a fair scoreline.But we’re having penalties anyway…. and why the hell not? A lot of people see tonight going to a shootout so let’s whet our appetites for some spot-kick drama.Copy linkCopiedViews from SunSport’s Dave Courtnadge in BilbaoGoal, shot, goal, shot, save, goal, shot… I cannot keep up with this….The commentary may well be in Basque too…if it was in Spanish I might stand a chance… probably not though.Copy linkCopiedFinal callRoy Keane has landed a new job for the Europa League final.The former Manchester United captain has appeared as a pundit regularly this season for Sky Sports and ITV.Keane shared his prediction for the final ahead of kick-off, suggesting his former club will “edge it” thanks to their history and the quality of Bruno Fernandes.He said: “You still have to fancy United, someone like Bruno can produce, the history of Manchester United still carries a little bit of weight.”There’s not much between them [in the league] but come the crunch, come the final, United’s history in finals, them winning cups the last few years, you’d like to think they would have a bit more knowledge around the game than Spurs.”That might edge it for them, and I think Bruno can produce that bit of magic.”Copy linkCopiedViews from SunSport’s Dave Courtnadge from BilbaoIt’s all level at half time with both sets of players looking like they’re happy to have a breatherThe weather is not even that hot but the pace has been pretty frenetic. Saying that, Nani was still playing last year so I reckon he could keep going for a while.Copy linkCopied More

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    Kevin De Bruyne reveals best XI from his time at Man City with major snub to legendary star

    MANCHESTER CITY legend Kevin De Bruyne shared his all-time favourite XI of former team-mates at the Etihad.And De Bruyne, 33, made some bold choices by omitting a few massive names.Manchester City legend Kevin De Bruyne revealed his all-time favourite team-mate XIDe Bruyne left Man City legend Sergio Aguero outThe playmaker is leaving City in June when his contract runs out after 10 stunning years in Manchester where he amassed a staggering total of 108 goals and 177 assists in 421 appearances.The Belgium international has done it all at Man City as he won six Premier League titles, two FA Cup trophies, five League Cup honours and the 2023 Champions League.De Bruyne played his last ever home game with the Citizens on Tuesday and helped Pep Guardiola’s side win 3-1 against Bournemouth.And the attacking midfielder commemorated the occasion by sharing a dream XI of all his favourite City team-mates before the match.Read More on FootballAnd there were some glaring omissions, one of the main ones being himself!The Belgian went with Ederson in goal and Kyle Walker at right-back along with Josko Gvardiol on the other side.Man City’s legendary captain Vincent Kompany was paired up with John Stones at centre-back.De Bruyne went with an exciting midfield trio consisted of Rodri, Ilkay Gundogan and David Silva – leaving club legends Yaya Toure and Fernandinho out.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd the No10 finalised his dream team with Raheem Sterling, Bernardo Silva and Erling Haaland up front, with the great Sergio Aguero posing as the biggest omission.De Bruyne opted against including himself in that esteemed group but will be joining another major pantheon.Roy Keane cracks joke live on Sky Sports as he tells De Bruyne to join Man UtdThe ex-Chelsea star will become the seventh all-time great after Mike Summerbee, Francis Lee, Colin Bell, Kompany, Aguero and David to have his own statue at the stadium. More

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    Rory McIlroy meets Rio Ferdinand and Paul Scholes in Bilbao as golf superstar cheers on Man Utd in Europa League final

    RORY MCILROY has caught up with Manchester United legends Rio Ferdinand and Paul Scholes in Bilbao.The golf superstar, 36, is a huge United fan and has attended several matches at Old Trafford down the years.Rory McIlroy catches up with former Man Utd star Rio FerdinandCredit: Instagram @rioferdy5Paul Scholes, Rory McIlroy, Rio Ferdinand, Darren Fletcher and Harry Diamond pose for a picture togetherCredit: Instagram @paulscholesaaaStill fresh from his epic Masters success last month, McIlroy has jetted to Spain to cheer on his beloved Red Devils in the Europa League final.United icons Ferdinand and Scholes will be covering tonight’s huge match for TNT Sports.The duo will be on punditry duties alongside Tottenham heroes Glenn Hoddle and Gareth Bale – with Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist on commentary.Ahead of the game, McIlroy and Ferdinand beamed as they caught up in a hotel lobby.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Northern Irishman and his caddie Harry Diamond then posed for a picture alongside Ferdinand, Scholes and Fletcher.McIlroy completed his career grand slam last month by edging out Justin Rose in a dramatic play-off.The golf icon was in the States last week competing in the USPGA Championship.The Holywood-born star finished a disappointing three over par to finish tied in 47th.Most read in Europa LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSMAN UTD VS TOTTENHAM – EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL LIVELatest betting odds, offers and predictions After winning the Masters, McIlroy was asked if he would bring the Green Jacket to a game at Old Trafford.The victorious star joked: “Ah, maybe if it can inspire some better play, absolutely!”Man Utd & Spurs fans get Europa League final party started in Basque city Bilbao after mad dash on planes & 35hr ferriesUndeterred by McIlroy’s cheeky quip, United boss Ruben Amorim said in a video message the following day: “Hi Rory, congratulations for the Masters!”I want to invite you to Old Trafford to show your trophy. It’s really important for us in this moment.”You achieved something that a lot of people thought would be impossible. We want that feeling in our stadium.”So, I hope to see you soon at Old Trafford and to meet you.”Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash More

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    Football pundits and legends give their last-minute Europa League predictions with Man Utd and Spurs clash tough to call

    GARY NEVILLE and other top pundits have shared their predictions for the Europa League final.Manchester United and Tottenham do battle in Bilbao with the Red Devils the bookies’ favourites to win.Gary Neville has shared his thoughts ahead of the Europa League finalCredit: PARoy Keane has backed one team to win for a key reasonCredit: GettyGary Lineker and Alan Shearer are both expecting plenty of goalsCredit: PAThousands of fans have descended on the city centre including pundits and club legends, who have shared their thoughts ahead of kick-off.The likes of Neville, Roy Keane and Paul Scholes have been critical of their former side United for the majority of the season, though Spurs have also been slated after losing 21 league games this term.Here is what pundits have had to say ahead of the final.Gary NevilleNeville has tipped the Red Devils to bring the trophy back to Manchester.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe said: “I think United will win on Wednesday night.”Winning the Europa League would be the silver lining around a very dark cloud. To win a trophy should never be disrespected.”It would be a brilliant achievement to win three trophies in three years in an era when United have been really poor. But to be where they are in the league is incredible. However, I think United will win.”I think they’ve players in there that will feel that occasion. Bruno [Fernandes], Casemiro – want it, need it in their lives. I agree with the belief. I do feel confident in United just getting through this game.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSMAN UTD VS TOTTENHAM – EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL LIVELatest betting odds, offers and predictions Roy KeaneKeane echoed Neville’s sentiment, suggesting United’s pedigree should see them over the line.The pundit said: “You still have to fancy United, someone like Bruno can produce, the history of Manchester United still carries a little bit of weight.BATTLE FOR BILBAO: The Road to the Europa League Final”There’s not much between them [in the league] but come the crunch, come the final, United’s history in finals, them winning cups the last few years, you’d like to think they would have a bit more knowledge around the game than Spurs.”That might edge it for them, and I think Bruno can produce that bit of magic.”Alan ShearerShearer is more optimistic about Spurs’ chances despite labelling Ange Postecoglou’s side “rancid” and “rotten”.The legendary striker added: “My prediction is going to be 2-2 or 3-3 after extra-time and Spurs to win on penalties.”Gary LinekerFormer Tottenham star Lineker agreed with his colleague Shearer that there will be goals.However he found it difficult to predict a winner.In response to Shearer’s comment, he replied: “Oh, he’s gone full on there, sounds like a World Cup final. I’m going to have to go for Spurs, I couldn’t not.”Shearer responded: “After 90 minutes?”Lineker said: “Well, I’ve got this feeling that it’s the teams that have not won for ages this year.”And I think they’re going to, I don’t know about 90 minutes or, I think it could easily go to extra-time.”Micah RichardsThe final member of the Rest is Football podcast, Richards, has offered a different view to Shearer and Lineker.He tipped a 1-0 United win, adding: “I think a lot of people have laughed off Casemiro or laughed at him for a while now. “But I think in these competitions, sometimes it goes down to set pieces. So I’m going to say Bruno [Fernandes] assist for a Casemiro goal, one-nil.”Jamie CarragherCarragher is another who can’t look past United’s stature and their knack of winning trophies – even in recent years as performances have dipped.He said on Sky Sports: “I think United will win. Spurs have injury problems as they have had all season.”I just think United have an ability to still win games. They beat Man City in the FA Cup final last season. The club have still got that feeling, the supporters going there.”I think the United supporters will be going there expecting something.”I think if Tottenham went in front United could still win, but if United go in front I couldn’t see where Tottenham will find something to go and win the game.”Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: LIVE BLOG for Bilbao clashPaul ScholesAnother United legend who backs his former side to get over the line, Scholes points out Spurs’ weakness with James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski absent through injury.”There are players like Fernandes, Amad, Garnacho, Son, Solanke and Johnson who are capable of match-winning moments.”It is more likely that a mistake rather than a bit of quality will decide the game, but with these two teams, anything can happen.”I think without Maddison and Kulusevski, Spurs are forced to be more defensive. Those two are the best players and make the team tick and play good football.”They both played a part and scored in Spurs’ three wins over United this season. They make a huge difference to this Spurs team and without them, they are massively weaker.”It’s so hard to call this game. I think with Spurs missing those two key players and United having more experience in finals and winning trophies, I just favour United to get over the line.”Rio FerdinandFerdinand shared concerns over United’s physicality, arguing it has been a problem in the Prem this campaign.He suggests it would be foolish to write off Tottenham, saying: “I have to be honest, I can’t call a Man United result.”They’re so inconsistent or they have consistently been bad in the Premier League. But the fact that they are playing against Spurs, another consistently bad team in the Premier League. But they have players who can win a match. It makes it such a hard game to call.”I don’t think the fans can be too surprised (if Spurs win). “They beat us three times already this season, so it’s not going to be a surprise if they beat us a fourth time. I think it’s only going to be stupid people that are going, ‘Oh my god, I can’t believe this’.”Joe ColeThe former England star has appeared as a pundit covering the Europa League for several years so knows a thing or two about the competition.Cole said ahead of the final: “I always like both teams to score when Tottenham are playing so I’ll be going with that again here. Can you bet on both teams to lose? No? Are we sure? How do we go about this game?”I’m happy to go either way, but I’m going to put my neck on the line and go for Spurs in the 90 minutes – only because I’ve got some mates travelling all around the world in 80 days to get there so I want Spurs to win for them!”Teddy SheringhamTottenham and United legend Sheringham is expecting it to rain goals in Bilbao because he has no faith in the defences of either side.He declared: “I could see there being a lot of goals in the game, because neither team can defend, and neither of them want to play defensively. I see a very high-scoring, open game. I’m going to predict a 4-3 win, but I don’t know which team will edge it.Read More on The Sun”I think either way, it’s going to be goals galore and it will be end-to-end stuff. If I was looking at this from United’s point of view, then I would be looking at the weaknesses in the Tottenham defence, but as I said, United’s back four is hardly a tight ship.”If it goes to penalties. I think the pressure will be massively on Manchester United. A shootout could really affect them mentally, with all the implications of the result.”Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash More

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    Ange Postecoglou HAS lost to Man Utd before as forgotten match comes to light before Tottenham’s Europa League final

    MANY thought Ange Postecoglou was undefeated against Manchester United going into the Europa League final.But a forgotten game has since come to light hours before his Tottenham side take on the Red Devils in Bilbao.It turns out Ange Postecoglou HAS lost to Man Utd before as forgotten match comes to lightPostecoglou lost 2-0 to Sir Alex Ferguson’s outfit just over 25 years agoIndeed, since joining Tottenham in the summer of 2023, Ange has remained unbeaten against Man Utd.In fact, the Aussie has overseen FOUR wins in five matches, with the other being a 2-2 draw at Old Trafford in January 2024.And much of the pre-match final talk has centred around the fact that Ange has three straight wins over them this season alone.But it turns out the Spurs manager, 59, has previously suffered defeat to the football powerhouse that is Man Utd.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSA then 34-year-old Postecoglou lost 2-0 to Sir Alex Ferguson’s outfit just over 25 years ago, in his first managerial job.His semi-final professional side South Melbourne lost at the Maracana at the Fifa Club World Championship in 2000.This was a Red Devils side that had just won a famous treble and notably withdrew from the FA Cup to compete at the tournament instead.A brace from Quinton Fortune after just 20 minutes decided the match. But this time, Ange isn’t necessarily the underdog.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSPostecoglou will be hoping to turn the tables as he looks to face off against Ruben Amorim’s sorry outfit on Wednesday. Both teams have endured their worst Premier League seasons in recent memory, suffering 39 league defeats between them.Ange Postecoglou fumes after being labelled a ‘clown’ and refuses to answer question during press conferenceSouth Melbourne lost 2-0 at the Fifa Club World Championship in 2000Postecoglou opened up about his first run-in with United before Spurs travelled to little-out Tamworth in the FA Cup this season.He said: “We ended up playing Man United and we were a semi-pro team, playing against the great Manchester United.“Qualifying for that tournament probably destroyed our domestic season because from the moment we qualified our players just didn’t want to risk getting injured and were just not interested in our league season.“We had a disaster that season, they just didn’t want to miss out on playing.“Some of my players, who were semi-pro but good footballers, probably played the games of their lives that day.”But the former Celtic manager fumed on Tuesday and hit back at a report calling him “a clown”.He will have the chance to win Spurs’ first trophy in 17 years on Wednesday night.MAN UTD VS TOTTENHAM – EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL LIVELatest betting odds, offers and predictions More

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    Man Utd & Spurs fans guzzle pints & party on streets of Bilbao in fevered run up to season-saving Europa League final

    MANCHESTER United and Tottenham Spurs fans are guzzling pints and partying on the streets of Bilbao in the run up to the season-saving Europa League final.Up to 70,000 footie fans have flocked from the UK to sunny Bilbao where spirits are at an all-time high – despite some taking a 32-hour ferry ride to get there.Fans gather ahead of the UEFA Europa League Final football matchCredit: GettySpurs and and Manchester Utd fans in Bilbao ahead of tonight’s matchCredit: Darren FletcherA Manchester United fan waves a flare in Plaza Nueva squareCredit: PATottenham Hotspur fan Jangwon Son plays the trumpet ahead of the UEFA Europa League FinalCredit: GettyBilbao bars have been flooded with Brit fans chanting and drinking ahead of the anticipated final tonight.Both sets of supporters have been pictured marching through the streets, chanting songs with drinks in hand as they gear up for the Europa League final.Images show one Spurs fan playing the trumpet for gargantuan crowds, while Man United supporters hold up their beers to cheers. Footage taken by The Sun showed fans filling the streets, with around 70,000 fans thought to have flocked to Spain – despite the stadium being at 53,000-capacity.read more on the finalSome have braved an epic 32-hour-plus ferry ride which set sail at 10pm on Sunday evening and didn’t arrive until this morning.With flights to Spain rocketing over £1,000 after the Prem teams sealed their final spots, many took advantage of the cheaper sea-route option, which set them back £260 for a cabin.The sky-high air prices are due to just six direct flights from Britain to the Basque region’s industrial port city each day.And with only 65 hotels in Spain’s tenth largest city, accommodation has been fully-booked for weeks.Most read in FootballEach club has millions of fans across the globe, but since there are just 14,000 tickets allocated to each team, bagging a seat to the showpiece event has been a tricky task.On Sunday night, precious tickets to the big game were selling on the black market for up to £10,000.Tottenham Hotspur fans standing on top of traffic lightsCredit: GettySpurs fans holding up their pintsCredit: ReutersManchester United gather in BilbaoCredit: ReutersBoth sets of supporters have been pictured marching through the streetsCredit: GettyEasyJet was charging £1,823 to fly from Gatwick to Bilbao on Wednesday morning and return on Thursday morning, while the cheapest hotels for Wednesday night cost around £1,200.But for those fans who managed to snap up the golden tickets, footage has shown them enjoying themselves.Despite dismal Premier League seasons – United finishing 16th in the table and Spurs in 17th, perilously close to the relegation zone – die-hard supporters were emptying their bank accounts and flocking to Bilbao.Aside from European glory, the victorious team qualifies for next season’s cash-riddled Champions League, worth a cool £100m to the club lifting the prized trophy.The travel chaos endured by thousands of footie fans has mirrored the 1987 American road trip comedy movie Planes, Trains and Automobiles starring Steve Martin and John Candy.Spurs fan John Affleck of Enfield, Herts., was today enjoying local delicacy pintxos – snacks on a slice of bread resembling an open sandwich – washed down with Sangria.He told The Sun: “I flew to Madrid then got the train down. There are no hotel rooms so I’m bunking up with a pal on his hotel floor.”The trip will cost me more than £5,000. I’m broke, but I really don’t care. We just need to win.”Manchester United fans in high spirits ahead of tonightCredit: PAFans drinking beer before the UEFA Europa League FinalCredit: AlamyFans of Tottenham Hotspur gather to show their support to their teamFans have filled the streetsCredit: GettyFrank Johns, a Red Devils season ticket holder, jetted out yesterday from Heathrow via Schiphol in Amsterdam.He said: “It has been a pitiful season but none of that will matter if we lift the trophy.”Under-fire Ruben Amorim and Ange Postecoglou face the chop if they don’t prevail in the final – cruelly dubbed “El Crapico” by rival fans and pundits.Amorim masterminded Manchester United’s 7-1 semi-final demolition of ten-man Athletic Bilbao.And Postecoglou guided his Tottenham team to a 5-1 triumph over Norwegians Bodo/Glimt in the other to set up the all-English final.Tottenham were beaten 2-0 by Liverpool in the 2019 Champions League final, while Chelsea beat Arsenal 4-1 in the Europa League final in the same year.United beat Chelsea in the 2008 Champions League final and Spurs KO’d Wolves to win the 1972 Uefa Cup.Tottenham have already beaten the Manchester outfit on three occasions this season – twice in the league and once in the Carabao Cup.Read More on The SunThey are looking to end a trophy drought that dates back to 2008 and has hung over the club – to the delight of opposing fans.United meanwhile have continued to be dire in the Prem with Amorim claiming his side are “not ready” to be competitive domestically and in the Champions League.Footie fanatics get the party started earlyBy Sun man in Bilbao, Dave CourtnadgeIT’S barely midday in Bilbao on the day before the Europa League final between Manchester United and Spurs – but it’s already getting lively.I arrived in the city at about 9am after a 32-HOUR ferry ride from Portsmouth.And the first thing a lot of fellow fans planned to do was find a pub for a well-earned drink.Walking around the area around the San Mames stadium this morning, a fair few others had the same idea.Many have had long journeys, stopping off overnight in another city to keep down the soaring cost of getting here, with some direct flights over £1,000.So it’s no surprise many are already getiing the party started, or the Bilbao leg of the party anyway.Spurs fan Gary, who flew out from London before an overnight stay in a Madrid hotel resembling a “prison cell”, joked as he supped a pint in the sun: “I’m just getting some practice in for tomorrow.”The atmosphere has been brilliant so far, and hopefully that will continue.There had been claims that Spurs fans are set to outnumber United fans by 5 to 1, with an estimated 50,000 supporters of the two English sides expected to arrive.One Tottenham follower I spoke to joked that they had bought all the flights out of London to keep the Reds out.Based on the number of Spurs shirts I’ve already seen, he might be right. 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    Man Utd and Tottenham fans blast football at each other as tempers flare ahead of Europa League final

    TEMPERS flared between Tottenham and Manchester United supporters ahead of the Europa League final.The two struggling Premier League clubs go head-to-head in a bid to save their seasons tonight at Bilbao’s San Mames Stadium.Tottenham and Man Utd fans were filmed kicking a football at each other before the Europa League finalCredit: Jam Press/@Niall_UTDThe two groups clashed in the streetCredit: Jam Press/@Niall_UTDThe ball was kicked into both groups of fansCredit: Jam Press/@Niall_UTDAnd prior to the highly-anticipated clash, some fans came to blows in the street in the Basque Country.One Tottenham fan was filmed kicking a football into a crowd of United supporters.Another person among the crowd retaliated by kicking it back, sparking a war of words between the two groups.The altercation in San Sebastian did not escalate any further.READ MORE IN SPORTA huge brawl also erupted in the area 24 hours before kick-off.Hooligans were filmed fighting and throwing objects at each other on Fermín Calbetón Street, forcing the local authorities to get involved.Witnesses said the fight broke out when two large groups of supporters began shouting and hurling insults.It quickly escalated into a brawl, with both Man Utd and Spurs fans grabbing whatever they could to throw at each other – including drinks and bins.Most read in Europa LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSMan Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clashAn ambulance was dispatched, with several people treated at the scene.However, no one needed to be taken to hospital.Shocking moment punches thrown as brawl erupts between Man Utd & Spurs fans in Spain ahead of Europa League finalTens of thousands of Brits have travelled to Bilbao for the Europa League final.Some have paid an eye-watering amount for a flights, while others have endured long ferry, bus and train journeys.MAN UTD VS TOTTENHAM – EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL LIVELatest betting odds, offers and predictions More

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    Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea pick of final-day Premier League TV fixtures as race for Champions League goes down to wire

    CHELSEA’S Champions League qualification clash with Nottingham Forest has been picked for TV.The Premier League has confirmed which fixtures will be broadcast on the last day of the season.Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea will be broadcast by Sky SportsCredit: GettyLiverpool vs Crystal Palace will also be shown on Sky SportsCredit: The TimesChelsea’s visit to Nottingham Forest will decide which team qualifies for next season’s Champions League.The match will be shown on Sky Sports, with the broadcaster also set to air Liverpool vs Crystal Palace.While TNT Sports is set to show Manchester United vs Aston Villa.Kick-off times for the two fixtures remain the same – Sunday 4:00pm – with all ten matches starting at the same time.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThere are five teams battling for a place in the top five, which guarantees Champions League football next season.A win for Forest would see them overtake Chelsea, but they could miss out on the top five if Aston Villa beat Manchester United.Villa are level on points with Chelsea but have a worse goal difference, so they could remain sixth if Blues win at the City Ground.Manchester City and Newcastle currently occupy third and fourth place, with the Magpies on 66 points along with Chelsea and Villa.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThey will likely need to beat Everton to reach the Champions League, while City could need just a point against Fulham given their superior goal difference.Pep Guardiola’s side are two points ahead of their rivals on 68 after beating Bournemouth 3-1 on Tuesday.Kelleher to Aston Villa? Liverpool Star Set for £30M Summer Move! More