Tottenham vs Man United - Europa League Final: ALL the reaction from Roy Keane and more as dire Man United are downed in Bilbao - and Ange Postecoglou's second-season trophy vow comes true!

Roy Keane, former Man United captain, speaking on CBS:

Just when you think things can't get any worse for Man United. It's been the story all year. They've been getting out of jail with European football and it's been covering the huge cracks at Man United.

All season they have been so easy to beat. They got lucky a few times in Europe and then tonight again, ultimately it's not good enough. They didn't show enough quality. Not enough options off the bench. If you're depending on Harry Maguire to get you out of jail you're in trouble.

There is no sugar coating this, Manchester United have been an embarrassment this season.

Ruben Amorim was clear that winning the Europa League would not save the campaign, but it would at least have given them a little bit of dignity.

Well, now they have none. Zilch. Zero. Nada... I could go on.

United have suffered their 20th defeat in all competitions this season, their most in a season since losing 22 in 1973-74 in a season they were relegated from the top-flight.

Honestly, I still can't believe it. 20?! That is just silly for a club the size of United. And not silly in a good way, how I usually use it.

This is the worst United team in over 50 years... let that sink in.

Brennan Johnson, Tottenham goalscorer, speaking to TNT Sports:

I'm so happy right now. This season has not been good at all, not one of us players care about that now. This team has not won a trophy for 17 years, it means so much. All the fans get battered, we get battered for not winning a trophy. We had to get the first one, I'm so happy. Ever since I came here, it has been 'Tottenham, good team but can't get it done', but we got it done.

I knew I touched it a bit [for the goal], but not clean, then I looked up and the ball was trickling in the goal. [In the last five minutes] I couldn't watch. I was just asking, 'how long left?' When we defended that corner, I was getting told it was done, and the relief is something I can't describe.

Tottenham Hotspur being 17th in the Premier League is not good enough. We had an unbelievable Europa run. The fans have been so good, home and away, and they had the edge over the United fans. They were all here an hour before the game, they got us through the game.

He [Ange Postecoglou] has done his job. He said he wins in the second year and he has, if there's ever a time for a mic drop, it's now [when he speaks to the media]. I can't thank the manager enough for how much trust he has in us, and he has a really good way of getting us up for it.

Right, the time is here.

Manchester United's fans have all left after the United players pick up their losers' medals.

The Tottenham end, however, is still bouncing, and it only gets louder as their players pick up their winners' medals.

And just as I type that, here comes captain Son Hueng-Min - he is making his way onto the podium.

Every skipper has their trophy lift technique, but I have no idea what Son is going to do.

Oh, it's a cheeky little shimmy a she turns to his team-mates, before he raises the Europa League above his head.

What a moment.

There's a fair bit of JT activity going on out there among the Spurs ranks. Plenty changed into their kit for the trophy lift... Bergvall, Dragusin...

Where do Manchester United go from here?

No Europe. No trophies. 16th place in the Premier League. Who thought they would ever fall this far?

I certainly didn't. Never in a million years did I foresee this.

This game just epitomised their season under Ruben Amorim. Gutless and toothless. They never looked like coming back.

To not score against a Spurs team that ships them in for fun just says everything about how poor they are going forward. Even Bruno Fernandes couldn't deliver.

The glory days will not be back for a very long time.

Ohhhh, this doesn't look good.

Harry Maguire and Cristian Romero were at each other's throats all game; they looked like they wanted a proper scrap for much of the 90 minutes.

I mean, if this wasn't in front of cameras, I wouldn't have been surprised to see fists thrown. Yep, there was that much needle.

Anyway, after full-time, Cristian Romero went to commiserate every single Manchester United player, which is a nice touch.

But Maguire didn't like it, and this video shows him kicking off. Not a great look.

This is incredible.

The Tottenham fans have been bantered for years, and years, and now this is their time to party.

And boy, oh boy, this is some party.

Freed From Desire is still popping off as I type this post. I can barely hear myself think.

These celebrations will go on for hours, days, weeks, and even months.

They certainly don't care about the Premier League anymore.

Many thought this day would never come again.

The curse of Totteringham was very real, and it has just been broken by the unlikeliest of Spurs teams.

This is a side that are 17th in the Premier League, they have no right winning a competition like this.

Well, they have, and you can't not feel a little bit happy for them after all the years of hurt. Unless you are an Arsenal fan, of course.

Freed From Desire is now on, which means the party is truly starting, the players are bouncing in front of the fans, many of whom are crying.

What do we do with the adjective 'Spursy' now?

TOTTENHAM HAVE DONE IT!

17 years of pain are over. The taunting is over. Tottenham have won a trophy at last; they are Europa League champions.

Ange Postecoglou said he always wins a trophy in his second season, and he really wasn't lying.

The substitutes and staff race onto the pitch, and there is a monster outpouring of emotion from everyone connected with Spurs.

The United players drop to the floor; they are devastated.

Andre Onana is up...

This is Manchester United's last chance. Can they find a late equaliser?

It's now or never.

RIGHT AT THE DEATH!

Vicario is surely the hero for Tottenham; that is an absolutely massive save to deny Luke Shaw.

Shaw meets a cross with venom and hammers a header toward the corner. It looks like it's going in.

But Vicario somehow manages to deny him.

Oh dear...

Leny Yoro, what are you doing? He has just had his Naby Keita moment from the 2022 Champions League final.

The ball comes his way, fans are begging for him not to shoot, but he decides to anyway.

The ball ends up in Sociedad, that's how bad the shot is.

Manchester United are throwing everything at it now, absolutely everything.

Every player is up; defence is not an option.

Amad Diallo whips a ball into the box, and Joshua Zirkzee looks set to get on the end of it, but somehow Spurs clear.

They are nearly there.

It's just not going to happen, is it?

Manchester United look like they have run out of luck in the Europa League, at the worst possible time, too.

Harry Maguire nods wide before having a right old moan for some reason.

The Spurs end then starts celebrating, they really believe now.

Twicthy bum time...

Tottenham are seven minutes from picking up their first trophy in nearly two decades, while United have that time to try and spoil the party.

Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo is on for United.

Time is really running out now for Manchester United.

Ruben Amorim rolls the dice, bringing on Diogo Dalot for Noussair Mazraoui.

Meanwhile, Djed Spence and Archie Gray are both on for Tottenham as they try to close the game out.

Tense times.

Handbags time!

Cristian Romero and Harry Maguire are going at it again, and I have absolutely no reason why.

I love a bit of needle, though, especially in a final. So, I am certainly not complaining.

Oh, and just as I am about to post, the two are at it again after a collision with Maguire picking up a yellow.

At this point, just let them scrap.

Oooft, that is close.

For the first time since their goal, I can actually write about Tottenham having a chance. Well, sort of.

The free-kick is whipped to the back stick, and Kevin Danso comes flying in to try and turn it home. Honestly, he really flies.

But he can't quite reach the ball - just a toes-width away.

Man United stay alive... just.

Ohhhhh, I'm not sure about that one.

Destiny Udogie leads at Tottenham counter-attack, but looks like he has the ball poached off him by Joshua Zirkzee.

Someone by me shouts, 'great challenge'.

I agree, but Felix Zwayer doesn't and even gives Zirkzee a yellow card. I mean, that's pretty poor.

It will soon be desperation stations for Manchester United.

You can see it in their play; they look like they're running out of ideas in and around the Tottenham box.

Time is running out, and fast.

Will Brennan Johnson be the hero?

The Tottenham man's first-half goal has Tottenham so close to a historic trophy win here, their first in 17 years.

The winger leaves the pitch to be replaced by Kevin Danso, as Spurs just sit back and hold on.

Nervy, nervy times now.

I bet Tottenham fans think they are in hell.

Their side has barely gotten out of their own half since the break; it's all hands on deck at the back.

They may be winning, but this must be like torture. Many of them have their head in their hands.

They are just over 10-15 minutes from glory, but that will feel like a lifetime.

Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear...

Manchester United fans start cheering, they think they have been awarded a penalty as Luke Shaw is chopped down by Pedro Porro.

Felix Zwayer looks like he has pointed to the spot, and the fans celebrate, but then they realise he is pointing for a goal kick.

So cruel... but also kind of funny.

Alejandro Garnacho has made a huge difference.

This is why I was so rattled that Ruben Amorim hadn't made substitutions; they are so much better now.

Garnacho has Pedro Porro in a spin as he drives into the box before letting fly of a stinging effort.

It's one hell of a hit, but Vicario does well to deny him.

My word, Manchester United are really knocking at the door now.

A lot was made about Bruno Fernandes before kick-off, but he has been pretty poor in my eyes... up until now.

The United skipper somehow gets on the end of a low cross with his head and nods the ball into he ground.

It's a great effort, but it bounces wide.

Finally!

Ruben Amorim has given his head a wobble and realised that things need to change.

He turns to Alejandro Garnacho and Joshua Zirkzee, who I can't believe has managed to get fit for this final.

Maosn Mount and Rasmus Hojlund make way.

I am sitting here in disbelief.

I was in the middle of telling you that Yves Bissouma had picked up a yellow card before Micky van de Ven turned superhuman.

It was almost like the volley that Erling Haaland pulls in front of goal, he leaped so high to get to that ball.

How United are not level, I really don't know.

WOW. WOW. WOW.

That is a sensational clearance from Micky van de Ven. I have no idea how he has done that.

Vicario is in no man's land, and Rasmus Hojlund heads the ball over him and toward goal.

It looks set to go in, but from nowhere Van de Ven turns into Superman and acrobatically clears the ball off the line.

That is simply ridiculous.

Ruben Amorim may be immune to his bench, but Ange Postecoglou certainly isn't.

The Tottenham boss decides to make the first substitution of the night, and he brings on his captain, Son Heung-Min.

Richarlison is the player to make way.

Why has Ruben Amorim not made a change yet? I don't get it.

His side are sleepwalking toward a defeat in the final here, and he just thinks this team is OK.

If he doesn't make a change soon, this game could easily get away from United. The fans are losing hope.

It's not looking good for the Red Devils here.

Oh, Dominic Solanke...

Tottenham are on the break, and the ball is slid through to Solanke. This is his moment.

But the striker must have lead boots on or something, cause his touch is absolutely horrific.

A huge chance goes begging.

Wait, what???

Brenan Johnson is incensed; he can't believe that a free-kick has not been given after he is wiped out by Patrick Dorgu.

The linesman is right next to him as Johnson nips the ball past Dorgu, who slides in and takes him down.

But nothing is given. Crazy.

The pressure is really ramping up now.

It's wave after wave of Manchester United attacks - Tottenham simply can't get out.

However, I wouldn't say the Spurs backline looks worried; United don't look threatening in the slightest.

Ruben Amorium needs to make some changes here.

That's a ball, my word.

Bruno Fernandes whips in one hell of a free-kick, and Leny Yoro darts to the front post to attack it.

But Vicario is as brave as can be to rush out and put his body where it hurts to collect the ball.

Great goalkeeping, which isn't like him from set-pieces.

Of course...

If there is one thing you can count on, it's Richarlison getting rattled and picking up a booking.

Well, him or Cristian Romero.

This time it's Richarlison, but I am sure Romero will get one later in the night.

My problem is, I just can't see this Tottenham side keeping a clean sheet.

I admire that Ange Postecoglou is being pragmatic, as he has not done that enough in his reign, but I'm not sure it will work.

Then again, I always seem to get these things wrong.

It's not exactly like Manchester United are threatening, they just have all the ball and are doing diddly with it.

Spurs were quite happy to disrupt the rhythm of the game in Bodo. Romero and Bentancur are both experts at it. And they look like they'll be happy to do that here in the second half, to frustrate United and test their patience.

Tottenham have barely touched the ball in this second half; they are really under the cosh.

Cristian Romero is the first to get a touch in ages as he clears a long ball off Patrick Dorgu and out for a throw-in.

He then celebrates as if he has made a goal-saving tackle or scored a goal.

It's a bit early for that...

Ohhhh, it's getting feisty!

First of all, Micky van de Ven is booked for a nasty collision with Rasmus Hojlund.

But the moment I am mainly focusing on comes moments later between Harry Maguire and Cristian Romero.

The pair are going at it, and the handbags are out.

Now, I have no idea who would win between them in a scrap - it's too tough to call.

Oh, Rasmus Hojlund is still playing?

The Dane has barely had a kick in this match, but finally, he actually gets involved in an attack.

Amad Diallo clips a ball into the box, but it's behind Hojlund and he has to stretch his neck backwards to try and score.

Obviously, the header then goes miles wide.

Ange picked a team for an untidy game, it's been an untidy game and they're ahead at. Sarr, Solanke, Richarlison and Johnson have not stopped running and the goal - although a lucky finish - came from that. Sarr's industry, won the ball and refused to give up and Johnson, always making those right to left sprints to panic defenders...

Oh dear... the teams are back out.

I am really hoping that these two teams show even the slightest bit of quality in these next 45 minutes.

That first half was like watching a bunch of U11s chasing the ball around like headless chickens.

This is a big 45 minutes, and let's hope it improves.

A desperately poor first half, but these are two desperately ordinary teams. Even a final can't camouflage that. I suppose we had no right to expect anything else.

Gareth Bale, former Tottenham winger, on TNT Sports

For a Spurs fan, it doesn't matter. Spurs have probably been the better team. Any Tottenham fan will take any goal.

Erm... what are they smoking?

I have watched that goal at least 10 times, and there is no way that's Brennan Johnson's goal.

He doesn't get a touch after Luke Shaw, and if he does, you need a microscope to see it.

Oh well, it doesn't really matter, does it? Tottenham are winning, and that's all the fans care about.

That's a familiar tale of woe for Manchester United. They had the better chances through Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo, but just cannot score goals, and it costs them.

They have shown real grit and determination to come back in Europe multiple times this season. But this is the most enormous 45 minutes. Need to see Joshua Zirkzee and Alejandro Garnacho swiftly...

Right, we have to go straight to the goal.

Sadly for people who like aesthetics in football, this is about as bad of a goal you could possibly get in the final.

Nobody connected with Spurs gives a hoot, though, as the ball ended up in the back of the net.

Messy, but massive.

Do Tottenham fans know this is only half-time?

They are celebrating like they have just heard the final whistle and have won the Europa League.

Guys... you are only halfway there.

However, with that first-half performance from Manchester United, it's tough to see them getting back into this.

Ruben Amorim needs to buck up his ideas, and so do his players.

I told you there was little time.

Manchester United have just two minutes to find a response before the break in Bilbao.

That is exactly what this game needed.

I was moaning to my colleagues about how poor this final has been, and moments later, the ball is in the net.

It's the perfect time for Spurs to score as well, right before half-time, giving United little time to respond.

FIRST BLOOD TOTTENHAM IN BILBAO!

It's bedlam in the Spurs end after what can only be described as a fitting goal to this Europa League final.

It's been a manic and messy game, and the opener is manic and messy as Luke Shaw puts the ball into his own net.

Pape Sarr whips a ball into the box, and Brennan Johnson's sheer presence causes panic. The ball bounces off Shaw and rolls slowly into the back of the net via the hand of Andre Onana.

A terrible goal, but Tottenham don't care.

Oh my word... we have actually had a shot on target.

This game may have been chaotic, but as I said before, there has been nothing in terms of chances. Well, until now.

Manchester United play a clever free-kick routine, and Amad Diallo drives in off the right to the edge of the area.

He pulls the trigger and... it's a terrible effort. The ball pea rolls into the gloves of Vicario.

Better than nothing, though.

Ohhhh, twitchy, twitchy...

I have no idea what Leny Yoro is thinking, he has a right brain fart in his own box.

Rather than knock the ball back to his keeper, he tries to turn in the area with two Tottenham attackers hunting him down.

It's a terrible decision, and he loses the ball. But luckily for him, Andre Onana collects it.

It's pretty telling that Yoro didn't want to pass to Onana, I have to say.

Amad, you can ask for Destiny Udogie's shirt after the game. You can't take it during it.

The Ivorian doesn't seem to understand that and clearly wants it now as he holds on to it for such a long time as Uogie breaks.

About as yellow of a yellow as you can get.

I spoke too soon...

Just after I praise Amad Diallo as a baller, he puts in the cross so bad that I reckon I may be able to get on the end of it.

Spoiler alert: I'm not on the pitch.

Amad Diallo is a baller, he really is.

He squares up Destiny Udogie on the right and then makes him look a right fool, turning him into a pretzel.

Diallo then drives a ball into the box, but Brennan Johnson does really well to boot it behind for a corner.

Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund is down... he really wants an excuse to come off, doesn't he?

This game perfectly sums up these two sides.

They are both so uncertain at the back. Patrick Dorgu has so much time to clear a cross, but he chests the ball out for a corner.

It's a manic affair, but there is very little quality. You just have no idea what is going to happen next.

I'm not even sure the players know, to be honest.

Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo need to touch the ball on every Manchester United attack. It just won't happen otherwise.

Guys, I've just yawned... that's not good.

I am not a yawner, and I especially didn't expect to yawn in a final between these two teams.

But while this has been a frantic half of football, there have been very few chances to write about.

Maybe subconsciously, my brain is telling me that this game is boring with a yawn. Or most likely, I am reading too much into it.

That is filthy from Casemiro.

I will get to the end of the move in a second, but I have to talk about the long ball from Casemiro to start it off. Silly, silly pass.

He shifts it over to Patrick Dorgu, who plops one back stick for Noussair Mazraoui to attack.

The full-back missed the ball, but United keep it and Bruno Fernandes tries to drive a ball across goal.

However, Vicario is equal to it.

Is Tom Daley captaining Manchester United tonight?

I mean, Bruno Fernandes has just put in a Daley-esque performance when going to ground there.

He goes down holding his face, but Destiny Udogie barely even touches him.

I really do hate that part of Fernandes' game, I have to say.

Ohhhh, that's so close!

There is a huge 'ooo' from the stands as Amad Diallo flashes a stinging cross-cum-shot past the post.

It's an effort that is begging to be headed home by someone in the six-yard box, but nobody takes a gamble.

If they had, it may just be 1-0.

Jeez, how did Patrick Dorgu get to that?

Harry Maguire clips a ball into the box, but it looks like Dorgu is chasing a lost cause.

But he turns into Stretch Armstrong - you know, the toy - and somehow manages to get a strong boot to the ball and fire a cross in.

It causes chaos, and United win a corner.

This is about as chaotic as you could have expected.

As expected, both teams look all over the place at the back, and go into a frenzy when they are attacked.

It is making for very entertaining viewing, and I reckon we are going to get a load of goals here.

Well, I hope we do.

Tottenham are all over Manchester United like a rash.

Brenann Johnson does brilliantly to win the ball down the right, and he drives into the area.

Johnson's cross is beaten away by Andre Onana, but only as far as Pape Sarr, who has an effort blocked.

And then, well, Noussair Mazraoui does the daftest thing I have seen in a while.

The full-back comes flying off the floor and absolutely clatters into the back of Richarlison.

A real mess for United there.

Ooooft, what a delivery that is!

I'm not Pedro Porro's biggest fan, but boy, oh boy, does he know how to whip the ball into a dangerous area.

He manages to cause Andre Onana some worry with a pearler of a ball into the six-yard box, but Noussair Mazraoui does well to clear.

Dominic Solanke should be licking his lips when those crosses come in.

Rasmus Hojlund has played eight minutes and already wants out.

I mean, going by his performances lately, I don't think that would necessarily be a bad thing.

I don't see him doing much tonight, I can't lie. He's not built for a final like this.

Rasmus Hojlund taking his boot off after eight minutes... you've got another 82 to go yet fella.

It's been the tale of two corner snow, and both have been absolutely pants.

Tottenham's is interrupted by a foul, while Manchester United's first is cleared with no problem.

But as I type that, Bruno Fernandes starts waltzing through the Spurs backline in the box like he is on Strictly.

The Spurs defenders look a little nervy, but thankfully for them, Mason Mount does their job for them by blocking Fernandes' effort.

United on top.

Immediately clear that Mount is looking to press Pedro Porro back and stop him marauding forward. Let's see how that battle develops.

Well, Spurs have made a better start than their last European final, when they conceded a penalty after 22 seconds.

The Ruben Amorim chant is already out.

You can barely hear yourself think inside the San Mames; it is absolutely deafening inside here.

Spurs start off louder, but the United fans are having none of it and start serenading Amorim.

Meanwhile, Brennan Johnson wins the first corner of the match, and the Tottenham fans cheer like they have scored a goal.

Didn't realise Arsenal were playing...

It's all come down to this.

Rather than do a huddle, the Tottenham fans walk past the Manchester United players and toward their own fans to clap them.

Oh, and then they do huddle... in the United half. That's interesting.

There are then some jeers as the Spurs fans sing, before the whistle is blown to start this massive final.

Who will lift the trophy? It's time to find out.

Casemiro looks like a man possessed in the line-up. Man is LOCKED IN.

Right guys, read this next line in the best Michael Buffer impression you can do. Either that, or just imagine him saying it.

Let's get ready to rumble.....

Artiz Aduriz has brought the Europa League trophy out while there is some tense music on in the background.

The players are held in the tunnel for what feels like a lifetime, until eventually they stride out into what is a cauldron of English noise.

The San Mames is really a stunner, and Tottenham's mosaic, which says 'Dare', makes it somehow look worse. Only joining, I like it.

The Europa League music comes on, and now I will have it stuck in my head for the rest of the night. What a tune.

When it ends, there is a monster roar. We are so close to kick-off now!

The pre-match show is underway, and well, it's not the best.

There are currently just a bunch of children having a boogie on the centre circle with orange hexagons in hand.

Yep, I don't get it either.

As you all know, I love pre-match light shows, but it doesn't seem like UEFA wants to make this entertaining. Just a lot of spinning, waving of arms, and not a lot else.

I'm gravely disappointed with that, I have to say. Not to be mean or anything, but I'd just wish they'd wrap it up.

I just want this final to start now.

I wonder how Leny Yoro is feeling.

The boy was only in nappies the last time that Manchester United won a European trophy, and now he is starting in a final for them.

Proves how long it's been - I was eight when United won the Champions League in Moscow 17 years ago to the day.

Anyway, aged just 19 years and 189 days, Yoro has become the second youngest player to start for United in a major European final, behind Brian Kidd on his 19th birthday in the 1968 European Cup final.

United won in '68, too. Good omens?

Sorry if this is a familiar refrain of mine but the music's so loud in the San Mames it's impossible to tell whether there's a decent atmosphere or not. Stakes are so high that plenty of fans probably too nervous to cheer.

Man United fans doing a decent job of ruining the trumpet solo version When the Spurs go Marching in... which Tottenham like to play before KO these days. Then the Spurs fans are booing and whistling through Take Me Home Country Road.

The trumpet is out, I repeat, the trumpet is out.

If you are a Tottenham fan reading this, you will know exactly what I am on about.

A trumpet tune of 'When the Spurs Go Marching In', and it starts popping off in the Tottenham end. They belt it out as loudly as possible.

Then it's Manchester United's turn, they are now singing 'Take Me Home', and I think they are even louder.

What an atmosphere - I have goosebumps.

How are we all feeling?

I imagine if you support either Manchester United or Tottenham, you are bricking it now. Don't try and tell me you're not nervous right now; that would be a lie.

There are just 15 minutes till kick-off, and the warm-ups have just been wrapped up. This is the moment in the night when nerves are at an all-time high.

As a fan, you get that feeling in the pit of your stomach, which is a blend of anxiety and excitement. This is when you usually go and get a pint to settle yourself down, but I imagine the fans have already had enough of them.

As a neutral, though, it's just excitement. No nerves. I am buzzing.

I have seen some Manchester United fans who are confused about who is playing where in Ruben Amorim's system tonight.

After all, he is playing two left-backs...

I can tell you that Luke Shaw will be at left centre-back tonight, and Noussair Mazraoui will be at wing-back.

How do I know that?

Well, Shaw is doing some drills in the warm-up and is on the left of a three at the back.

That's how I know.

Ah, Aadam... you've put Dimitar Berbatov in a tricky spot there.

With his history playing for both sides, Berbatov is always going to try to avoid telling people who he wants to win.

I'm guessing that Spurs is his preferred choice, though, based on that answer. He's right, they need it more.

Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham boss, speaking to TNT Sports:

Great feeling. Spurs royalty [Glenn Hoddle and Gareth Bale] here. These guys know it's a special night for the club. As a football club, we've not had too many of these moments recently.

I feel we're going to need some running power tonight. It's a kind of game where we're going have to work hard defensively and attacking. United are a tough opponent - there are a couple of key players we need to shut down.

On Fernandes:

He's one of those players. In big games, it is moments that change games, and he is that player. That is irrelevant [the three wins this season], and it is a final. Your form coming into finals doesn't count for much.

There is a reason I called this the 'Donkey Derby' earlier in this blog.

You don't need me to tell you why, but I am going to anyway.

Manchester United are down in 16th in the Premier League, while Tottenham are below them in 17th. I know, it gets weird every time you see it.

None of the previous 177 winners of an edition of a UEFA competition have ever finished lower than 14th in their domestic league that season – a record currently held by West Ham United when they won the 2022-23 Conference League and finished 14th in the Premier League.

It means that regardless of who wins tonight, the team lifting the trophy will make a bit of history.

Probably not the history they want to make, though... let's be real.

It's 248 days since the 1-0 derby defeat at home to Arsenal when Postecoglou made it clear in an interview that he *always* won a trophy in his second season.

And here we are one win away from Tottenham's first trophy since 2008, their first in Europe since 1984... and Arsenal have finished the season empty-handed.

Ruben Amorim, Man United boss, speaking to TNT Sports:

I am relaxed, I did my job, now it is with the players, I am really confident, I enjoyed the training, and if you enjoy it, you are relaxed. I feel that Mason Mount gives us a different balance. He is really good attacking, but also how he compacts the team, an extra midfielder. Spurs put the full backs inside, so my thinking way to have possession with a right foot is important, and also to have speed on the bench.

Casemiro is used to these games, Bruno [Fernandes] is always there, Harry Maguire has played in European games for his national team, the final is a different game, we are feeling better on that. It can be strange, but our recruitment won't change so much; it can be a little help to get one more, but it will not change much. The most important thing is the feeling of winning.

It will help everyone, people left at Carrington and Old Trafford, and we need to deliver the feeling. I am not thinking about the money; we are a big brand, we need the feeling to have a connection, and without trophies, that is hard. We had the week to prepare, when we do we have more pace and time. We are getting better. It is a final, this team in these moments can step up, and I truly believe my players are going to do it.

Rio Ferdinand, former Man United defender, on TNT Sports:

Spurs have to make it a Premier League game. Amorim has made it clear that they can’t match up physically to most teams, the most Premier League-focused Spurs make it in terms of aggressive and quick, it will be harder for United to deal with.

Harry Kane, this is what you are meant to do.

I have seen Kane take a lot of heat from the Tottenham fans on social media for not travelling to Bilbao to support his former side.

I get it in some way, but I still think it's a little harsh. He is a Bayern Munich player now, so why should he go and support another side? Even if it is Spurs.

Do you want to know who is not getting a lot of heat, though?

Former Man United star Raphael Varane is getting heaps of love on social media for turning up at the San Mames to support his former side.

I mean, fair play.

The fans are starting to flock like a herd of sheep.

As I type this, Ange Postcoglou is talking to the media, and many Tottenham fans have crowded near the bottom of the stand to chant at him.

Nothing too nasty, for now at least.

The noise levels are really starting to ramp up now, and this is only the beginning of the buzz.

When kick-off comes, it will be deafening.

The stakes could hardly be bigger tonight. For Spurs, it's about shedding an identity that they hate. For United, it's about gatecrashing their way back into the elite. It's all or nothing.

Wow.

I have said it before, and I will say it again: The Europa League trophy is so much nicer than the Champions League one.

That's not a debate either, I won't hear anything else.

Just look at it, this piece of silverware is a thing of beauty - a stunner. I love it.

This is what tonight is all about, one of Manchester United or Tottenham will be lifting this beaut later.

But who will it be?

Big call to leave Son out, but the right one for me. Firstly, his form wasn't great before the injury, secondly, he probably can't last 90/120 mins, and thirdly, you want him there at the end if you're looking for a goal.

In the first leg of the semi-final against Bodo/Glimt, Postecoglou played Richarlison, blasted him for 45 minutes to great effect, launched quite a lot aerially onto him from Porro, and it proved very effective. Then 2-0 up, took him off at half time and played the second half with Tel.

Alejandro Garnacho not making the starting XI makes his Instagram story from this morning all the more barbed... a not-so-subtle reminder of him scoring in a big game.

I think Garnacho needs to realise he can still have a big say in this game tonight. His pace off the bench is one of United's biggest weapons to turn this game around if it goes wrong. He needs to stop sulking and lock in.

This is the biggest moment of Mason Mount's Manchester United career.

It's fair to say, until his brace against Athletic Bilbao, Mount's United career still hadn't gotten off the ground. It's been hover mode since he signed two years ago.

Or actually, I have a better example.

You know when you are trying to start your car and it just keeps making that sound and won't turn on. That's basically what Mount's United career has been like.

Well, until his recent return to a little bit of form.

Goals against Brentford and Bilbao are the reason he starts tonight; Mount has some confidence back.

When at the top of his game, the Englishman is a top midfielder and can cause any team problems. However, he hasn't been at that level since his prime at Chelsea.

United will need him on that form tonight, mind.

Can he summon the same type of performance that he gave to win Chelsea the Champions League trophy in 2021?

If he does, it will be a night of celebration for United, I'm sure of it.

Ohhhh, that midfield.

Tottenham's injuries have certainly come to haunt them in the middle of the park; that is a really weak midfield three.

The biggest surprise, though, is that Richarlison gets the nod, and Son Heung-Min is only fit enough for the bench.

No wonder he looked so moody upon arrival.

In the red corner...

Ruben Amorim has named his starting line-up for the biggest game of his Manchester United tenure so far.

The big surprise for me is that Mason Mount starts. He has been given the nod in some smaller games, but this is a big, big call.

Leny Yoro returns from injury to start, while Joshua Zirkzee is fit enough for the bench.

Can this team do the job?

Oh, ok... I was not familiar with your game, Ruben Amorim.

The Manchester United boss leads his team off the bus and into the San Mames Stadium looking like a mafia boss. So suave.

The United squad followed him in their £1,000 Paul Smith suits.

They are all looking very cool, I have to say. This is how you should look on final day.

Much better than Liverpool's 1996 Spice Boys, that's for certain.

The Spurs team bus has just arrived and it unloaded players that included Dejan Kulusevski on his crutches. I wonder just how important his absence might be.

How are your nerves?

Tottenham have just arrived at the San Mames Stadium, and I imagine the majority of the squad are bricking it. If they aren't, then they should be.

I was about to type that they all look very serious and seemingly mean business, until I looked at the bottom photo. Archie Gray is just chilling - doesn't seem nervous at all.

The team news should be out in less than 10 minutes, so it will be interesting to see if Son Heung-Min starts.

Going by his face, I can't tell if he is moody because he will be on the bench or not.

I guess we will have to see.

Is this game El Sackico?

In my head, it should be. Everything is on the line. Lose, and you're gone. Win, and you earn yourself more time.

As we all know, winning may not even be enough for Ange Postecoglou to keep his job; it feels like the damage is already done, and the Aussie is on his way out regardless.

However, it doesn't seem to be the same for Ruben Amorim.

If anything, the Portuguese boss has done a worse job than Postecoglou this season. He at least had the head start that Erik ten Hag gave him.

But for some reason, he is not under the same pressure as Postecoglou, and I can't understand for the life of me why he isn't. I don't even think he can, either.

Surely, if United lose the final tonight, questions need to be asked of Amorim and whether he should be at United next season.

I doubt they will be, though.

I'm so undecided on the result tonight, I've changed my mind since yesterday. I'm not sure either side is good enough to win in normal time. I'm going for United 2-1 after extra time.

Verdict: Man United win

Who knows what to expect from these two teams this season? Spurs have already beaten United three times and could easily make it four at the San Mames.

But United seem to have a little more momentum going into the final, in terms of Amad Diallo and Mason Mount coming back into fitness and form compared to Tottenham losing two key players in James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski. United have somehow managed to stay unbeaten in Europe, and I think their record will stay intact.

Verdict: Man United win

Nathan is right, Bruno Fernandes is by far the best player on the pitch.

And while I could go on for hours about why Spurs should be scared of him, I'm just going to focus on one reason.

That reason is that he adores the Europa League, and I mean really adores it. Fernandes and the Europa League are a match made in heaven.

Now, I'm not sure that sounds as complimentary as I thought, but just hear me out.

The Portuguese midfielder just always seems to do something in this competition, week in and week out.

Fernandes now has 27 goals and 19 assists, the combined of any player in Europa League history.

Maybe it's better that Manchester United don't get Champions League football, then, eh?

I'm joking, I'm joking.

I am not expecting a thriller, but I do just believe that finals often fall on the shoulders of the best players and United will have the two best on the pitch in Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo.

I’m also not going to downplay the amount of final experience in United’s ranks to drag them over the line. Casemiro has played in 19 career senior finals and won them all. That counts for something in games between sides as poor as these two are. Narrow United win for me.

Verdict: Man United win

Tottenham really have had Manchester United's number this season.

As you saw, Matt Barlow wrote below, Spurs have beaten the Red Devils on three occasions this very campaign.

Yep, that is right. No matter how bad they have been domestically, Spurs have always managed to get past Ruben Amorim's side, and also Erik ten Hag's (he was in charge for the first win).

Tottenham romped to victory at Old Trafford before Ten Hag was sacked, shipping three past United without a response. They then edged a seven-goal thriller in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals in December.

That was one hell of a game, I have to say.

And lastly, the third win was a slender 1-0 win back in February at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - James Maddison scored the only goal of the game.

But can they beat United when it counts?

I’m backing Spurs with not a lot of confidence, on the basis of the three wins against Manchester United this season and the vital Romero and Van de Ven axis in central defence.

Those two have started together in the last five Europa League ties, and Postecoglou’s team have won four and drawn one. Tottenham are a different proposition when they both play, and they have barely been together in the Premier League for weeks.

Although still not perfect, of course. And they lack midfield creativity without Maddison, Bergvall, or Kulusevsk,i so I don’t expect full throttle Ange Ball. Maybe something of a hybrid tactical model with less risk in midfield and quick counterattacking… Spurs 3 Man United 1.

Verdict: Tottenham win

Guys, kick-off is edging closer, and closer.

I have now been on this blog for nearly three hours, and its getting to that time in the night where excitement is really growing in my body. I live for these nights.

So, now that the game is less than two hours away, I thought it would be a good time to share some predictions.

All week, I have been certain that Manchester United are going to roll over Tottenham just because of their know-how in finals, compared to Spurs' lack of experience.

But, and I don't know why, I have changed my mind.

Come back to this post at full-time, but I am putting my eggs in the Tottenham basket. I think the curse will come to an end tonight.

It's their time!

There is soaking up the atmosphere, and then there is this.

It seems some fans have decided to head to the San Mames early, and I mean really early - kick-off isn't for two hours.

Honestly, what are they going to do for the next hour? Just sit there and look at the stadium? Yes, it's a stunner, but surely they will get bored.

This place won't get properly busy for another hour yet.

Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham boss, speaking on Tuesday:

I'll tell you one thing, irrespective of tomorrow, I'm not a clown and never will be.

You really disappointed me that you used such terminology to describe a person that for 26 years, without any favours from anyone, has worked his way to a position where he is leading out a club in a European final.

For you to suggest that somehow us not being successful means that I'm a clown, I'm not sure how to answer that question.

Speaking of Spurs' Aussie boss, it's a landmark day for him today.

No, not just because it's a European final, which is landmark enough, but because of another milestone in his career.

Tonight is Postecoglou's 100th game in the hot seat at Tottenham since joining in the summer of 2023.

He's the first manager to take charge of his 100th game with an English club in a major final since George Ramsay with Aston Villa in the 1892 FA Cup final.

I mean, what an occasion to mark your century of games in charge of Spurs - he has the chance to make history.

Can he take it?

Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham boss, speaking on Tuesday:

Whatever happens beyond tomorrow is irrelevant when you think about the opportunity that exists right now and that is to provide something special for this football club, its supporters and everyone that has worked so hard for a trophy.

If I was worried about my tenure at this football club, it's fair to say we wouldn't be in this position because I would have been distracted long ago. I'm pretty good at ensuring my focus is on giving this football club its best opportunity that it has had for a while to do something special.

Whatever happens after that, I'm very comfortable that I will continue trying to win trophies wherever I am.

You all knew it was coming, let's be honest.

Tottenham's trophy drought is one of the biggest storylines of this final, so I simply couldn't avoid it.

It's another night where they are one step away from glory. This isn't the first time they have been in this position recently, though. In fact, I am going to comb through their last five finals.

Yep, you are reading that right. Spoiler alert: their last win was a long, long time ago.

• 2021 League Cup final: Manchester City 1-0 Tottenham
• 2019 Champions League final: Liverpool 2-0 Tottenham
• 2015 League Cup final: Tottenham 0-2 Chelsea
• 2009 League Cup final: Manchester United 0-0 Tottenham - lost 4-1 on penalties
• 2008 League Cup final: Tottenham 2-1 Chelsea (AET)

Now, this is the big question.

After the seasons that tonight's two finalists have had, which club needs this trophy more?

I mean, there is an argument to be had for both sides, however, there is one that clearly needs it more in my head.

You guessed it, Tottenham.

I mean, come on... they haven't won a trophy in 17 years. Yes, United have had a horrendous season and will be desperate for some silverware to paper over the cracks, but they don't need this quite like Spurs do.

The pressure on the shoulders of the Tottenham players tonight is enough to weigh even the best players in the world down. They have the task of changing a narrative that has been about for decades.

Meanwhile, United have won two trophies in their last two seasons. No matter how bad they have been, they still seem to manage to win silverware.

So yeah, it's a pretty obvious answer, in my book.

If you are a Manchester United or Tottenham fan, you are probably going to hate my guts after this post.

Probably not the best thing, considering I want you all to read my blogs... but hey-ho, I've got to do what I have got to do.

The vibes around this final are just so strange.

United and Spurs are two teams that I have been bashing all season for their problems in the Premier League. Their domestic campaigns have been a disgrace and frankly embarrassing.

But here the pair of them are, in a European final.

In my mind, whoever does win this game has not saved their season. Well, that rings more true with United, but I still believe it is the same with Tottenham, too.

However, regardless of how shocking their seasons have been, there should still be mega celebrations from the fans of who takes home the trophy.

I don't believe that they shouldn't be able to enjoy it, like many others do.

Still, there is just such a weird vibe around this game. I don't like it.

There was a police helicopter whirring overhead as we made our way through rows of riots cops and stewards to reach the San Mames this evening. Bilbao certainly isn’t taking any chances with this all-English final.

But the mood in town seems to have been very friendly all day with United and Tottenham fans mingling freely. There are no guarantees on these occasions, of course, but let’s hope it continues to pass off peacefully.

We are going to be seeing a sea of Manchester United flags later.

It appears that the club have laid a flag with the Red Devils symbol on every seat in the United end.

Personally, I'm not a fan of these flags. Some would say doing this is 'tinpot', but I guess you can't really say that about United.

I'm sure there will be lots of other ways for the United fans to make a great atmosphere, without waving these tacky things about.

Not for me, personally.

This isn't the content I usually put in my coverage, but tonight I am making an exception.

Why? I mean, just look at my colleague Nathan Salt's smile here, how could I not share this?

If you are reading this, Nathan (which you hopefully are), enjoy the game.

I just want to take a minute to really appreciate the beauty of Estadio de San Mames.

I mean, wow, just wow.

It's pretty easy to see why UEFA thought this was a good ground to host the final in, isn't it? It's spectacular.

Just look at that roof, that's the most aesthetically pleasing part of it for me. I can't take my eyes off it.

It's one hell of a place to play footie, and in less than three hours time, we will see the battle of the Brits inside it.

I'm starting to get really excited now, are you?

Now this was one hell of a final.

I was only a seven-year-old at the time, but my love for the game was so big that I even used to watch UEFA Cup finals, even if there were no English sides involved.

And despite being so young, this is one I remember well.

In an all-LaLiga final, Espanyol had to come from behind twice to take reigning champions Sevilla to penalties at Hampden Park.

It looked as though it was written in the stars that the boys in blue and white would lift the cup. After their fightback, surely their name was on the cup.

But we all know Sevilla's history in this competition... they always get their hands on the trophy, no matter what.

And the same happened here as they retained the cup on penalties.

A few names here among the VIP guest list includes eight members of the  Glazer family… FA chiefs Debbie Hewitt & Mark Bullingham, Rafa Benitez, and Luis Figo.

Terry, Tottenham fan: The greatest ever final is going to be tonight. COYS!

Anonymous: The best has to be that Liverpool-Alaves classic from 2001. Not cagey in the slightest, all action, and lots of goals. I remember it well.

Gordon, Glasgow: As a Celtic fan I was hurt, but the final we had with Porto back in 2003 was a cracker. I hated every minute of it though.

Right, I am getting stuck into this straight away.

When this question came up in the office, within seconds, I was giving my reasons why Liverpool's nine-goal thriller with Alaves in Dortmund was the greatest.

In my head, there is no competition.

Nine goals, comeback after comeback, endless drama, and fo course, a Golden Goal.

I really wish they would bring the Golden Goal back; it is so much better than extra-time and penalties.

If it had existed this season, though, Manchester United wouldn't be in Bilbao right now. So, I'm guessing Red Devils fans are happy with the current format.

Anyway, that Gary McAllister winner is engrained into my memory, I don't even need to watch it to be able to see the free-kick in my mind.

One of the worst times to score an own goal... but Geli did, and Liverpool completed their own strange version of a treble.

What a game it was, and what a night.

I know, I know, it used to be called the UEFA Cup.

There was just no space in the sub-heading to fit those words in, too, and it would also just look weird.

Anyway, let's not get distracted by my inadequacies.

I've just been in a debate with some colleagues about what the best Europa League/UEFA Cup final of all time is.

There are a few that spring to mind, and over the next half hour, I will be drip feeding them into this feed.

However, I also want to hear from you, what is the greatest final that you have ever seen in this competition?

Please let me know your thoughts!

Myself and Chris Wheeler are inside the police curtain on the outskirts of San Mamés, and this is bubbling along quite nicely.

Still excitement over nerves for most, but the closer it gets to kick-off and the closer it gets to bitter, crushing disappointment for one fan base… not sure that excitement will hold for much longer.

You guys have waited long enough.

If you guys have been keeping tabs on this blog, you will know that my colleague Luke left you with a photo of this guy.

He asked you all to have a pop at guessing who he was, and did the same to me the moment I walked into the press room.

I got the answer right within a second... not to be cooky, or anything.

So, do you want to know who it is?

Yep, of course you do. The player shredding on the guitar is Sandro Raniere, who left Spurs back in 2014. In my mind, he has barely changed!

Did you guess right?

Ah, this is lovely.

Right, please don't take this the wrong way, guys, but how sweet does Sir Alex Ferguson look in this photo?

I mean, back in his heyday, he was a manager that many of us journalists were fearful of - you didn't want to get on his bad side.

But these days, he is just a lovely retired man who is vibing in Bilbao.

Ahead of the final tonight, he took a little trip to San Mames to sign a pennant to put in the stadium.

A nice gesture from the Scot, and he looks very happy about it.

Teddy Sheringham, former Spurs and Man United striker, speaking to PrimeCasino:

It's all about winning trophies, isn’t it? It's all about winning. And yes, I would say that they’d have had a better season than Arsenal. Despite that, I think Mikel Arteta is building things very nicely at Arsenal. There’s so many clubs that would want to switch places with Arsenal and the foundations they have at their football club. They look fundamentally strong and solid. You’d have to say they’ve done a better job than Daniel Levy and Tottenham have.

But, as I said, when a footballer looks back at his career, he looks at the things he’s won. The players in that Manchester United squad have won more prizes than those in the Arsenal dressing room over the last few years, despite Arsenal being better than them. Arsenal are desperate to get their hands on silverware, and they haven’t been able to do it. Well, I say that, Arteta did win the best looking manager award didn’t he, so I guess that’s something!

Now, I love this!

There are some Athletic Bibao fans who have joined the Manchester United pre-match party, despite being knocked out by them in the last four.

Just look at this, these fans aren't holding a grudge, they just want to have a groovy time while the final is on in their City.

They are all United in the bid to beat Tottenham.

Louis Saha, former Manchester United striker, speaking to Paddy Power:

The key player in the Europa League final will be Bruno Fernandes, but I’m really excited for the return of Amad. He’s a disruptor and someone that can really cause damage.

You always expect the style of Tottenham to be dominant physically. Both teams haven’t been performing in the Premier League, and they’ve still managed some strong performances in Europe – even if United have been a bit luckier in some games.

There are so many elements of surprise – both teams are erratic, sometimes they will have a tremendous 20 minutes and then disappear for 10 minutes. It’s difficult to be a fan of either team at the moment.

This bloke...

Honestly, any major final, and this man somehow manages to get a ticket, it's absolutely incredible.

Whoever he works for must have an unlimited amount of annual leave; otherwise, how else does he get this much time off?

Either that, or he works for himself.

Somebody's had a few pints...

Well, that is surely the only explanation for throwing up a rockstar sign like that; I haven't seen one of those since I was about 10.

OK, OK, that was mean. The Tottenham fan looks like he is having a belting time in Biblao ahead of kick-off, as is everyone else. And so he should.

The vibes are immaculate.

Cheers, Luke, I'm crying now.

Genuine tears are splashing on my keys as I type this post - what a way to start my coverage.

You're too kind to me, Power. Well, apart from the Hector Bellerin lookalike thing... I'm not so sure about that.

But anyway, you are all stuck with me for the rest of the evening now. That's right, I will be leading you through the rest of our build-up as well as the match coverage itself and the reaction.

This final has been the talk of the office all week; it's all anybody can think about, write about, and speak about. That's how big this is.

I'd argue that this is bigger than the Champions league final this year... well, certainly for people in this country.

All eyes are on Bilbao now.

And now the moment everybody has been clamouring for: I'm signing off from this blog.

Guiding us through the rest of the afternoon and the evening is a very special man.

Yes, if you're a regular reader of our blogs, you'll know him very well. And if you don't read a lot, well, you're about to know him.

Allow me to introduce Mail Sport's very own Hector Bellerin lookalike (sorry, Spurs fans): Harry Bamforth.

TNT Sports pundit Joe Cole has been moonlighting as an interviewee of Charlotte Daly, who asks him the all-important question: who is going to win tonight?

Supporters have been showing Amorin and Postecoglou what they're made of with some top-quality tekkers in the streets.

One fan hears the roar of the crowd with a perfectly executed backwards header while another walks away with TWO match balls after a world-beating performance.

Another fan apparently misses the memo, though, as he resorts to plonking a traffic cone on his head, something which a referee would boot him off for.

Alright, time for a little game.

A 106-time Tottenham star serenaded fans earlier today at the Ametzola Park fan zone.

He was at Tottenham between 2010 and 2014.

Nowadays, he plies his trade at non-league Harborough Town.

Can you remember him? Answer below the picture.

SANDRO

• Why Joshua Zirkzee is a 'leader' in the dressing room
• An insight into Amorim's mentality today
• How Amorim and Postecoglou have been 'chalk and cheese' in the build-up
• And much more!

Wondering about the specifics of how Man United have been preparing for this one?

Well, it's good that Nathan Salt is on hand to walk us through.

You can read all about it in our Mail+ offering below.

Don't forget that Ange Postecoglou is a person like any one of us.

Football managers take unprecedented levels of vitriol. One week you're the king, the next you're the pauper. Everybody has an opinion on you and Ange Postecoglou has felt the brunt of that more than most of his peers.

Here's a window into the route he has taken to get here. He even ends with a bit of Greek!

Behind lots of tonight's stars is a loving partner.

Football is a demanding world, both physically and mentally, and having a supportive partner can make all the difference and give players a sense of grounding when it can be hard to know who their true friends are.

You can meet some of them below.

Rapper AJ Tracey has been leading the festivities at Tottenham's fan zone, marshalling the crowd with his mic and tunes.

The 'Ladbroke Grove' hit-maker is a big Spurs fan and opened up about his support for the club in an interview in 2022.

'I’m a season ticket holder, so I know everyone around me. It’s like a family,' he said.

'I tend to drive in now, usually meet my younger brother along the way. He lives in a different side to London to me. He might be an even bigger fan than me - he’s got a lot of trivia!

'We’ll park up, walk around the front of the stadium, get a bite to eat, sit down, excited, get a drink and say ‘hi’ to everyone around me.'

His earliest Spurs memory? 'My dad giving me the purple Pony shirt, late 1990s, and giving me a big hug. I’ve still got that shirt. It’s tiny, but I’ll never get rid of it.'

LUKE POWER: One local has clearly blown his top with the contingent of flag-bearing United fans in Bilbao.

The gentleman - not so gentle in this case - has been prodding suporters away from his balcony with a spear to stop them from hanging up their banners.

Party pooper? Or just a sensible soul looking after his property?

LUKE POWER: Go to the Fan Festival in Bilbao and you'll spot a stray Jesus Navas among the stars hoping to make a name for themselves.

Navas, of course, won this competition four times with Sevilla, most recently in 2023, though he hung up his boots in December last year.

Nani and Faouzi Ghoulam are also pictured taking part.

This is the first European final in Bilbao since 1977 when the old San Mames hosted the second leg of the UEFA Cup final (then played over two legs) between Athletic Bilbao and Juventus. Athletic won 2-1 on the night but lost the final on away goals.

Last year, the new stadium hosted the UEFA Women’s Champions League final when Barcelona beat Lyon 2-0 before a record crowd of 50,827.

Some among those present last year are warning Manchester United and Spurs fans that Bilbao Airport struggled to cope with the post-match exodus and they should give themselves plenty of extra time to clear security.

As for the media operation at the final, there are approximately 350 representatives at tonight’s final from written media, photographers and non-rights holders radio. There are 95 TV, radio and social media commentary desks.

There are 64km of fibre optic cable and 31 host broadcast camera positions, including the aerial camera and a drone. There are four tribune presentation positions, 23 pitchside presentation positions, 10 flash interview positions and five super-flash positions.

Ossie Ardiles looks like he's having a good time!

The former Spurs boss has been given guardianship of some sort of smoke cannon and has been spraying it like there's no tomorrow. He looks like a giddy five-year-old. Ah, the innocence of youth.

If he can just sneak that into the stadium and get a front row seat, it might come in handy as a distraction in a penalty shoot-out.

Earlier on this blog, we shared a feature about how Harry Maguire has bounced back from a difficult period in his personal life.

Now supporters have shared some touching messages to help motivate him for one of the biggest games of his career.

Unfortunately, any major footballing event seems to come with a few pockets of disorderly fans who take things too far.

Footage has emerged of supporters at loggerheads in San Sebastian - 48 miles from Bilbao!

One fan has highlighted how he's paying £450 to own a small corner of a 10-bed hostel room for two nights.

You never know when you're next going to get a final. For many fans with the money, it's worth the hit.

I'm back in the Manchester United fanzone and it’s a great atmosphere here. I’d say this lot are more excited than nervous and I think that’s right. Finals are meant to be enjoyed not dreaded!

This is a great bit of research.

Tonight's Europa League final pits two teams together who combine for a total league position of 33rd - the lowest in this tournament's history.

In an alternative history, if this happened every season, Wigan, Bolton, and Sunderland would have made three finals.

But some really rushed maths suggests Southampton and Everton would hold the record for the most with five! Aston Villa trail with four.

It's one of the most infamous moments in Manchester United lore - Eric Cantona kung-fu kicking a fan at Selhurst Park in January 1995.

More than 30 years on, the iconic forward has shared pictures inside his new custom Ford Capri... which features a silhouette of the kick in the headrests!

Fans are divided on social media.

One wrote: 'Love this, but why didn’t they turn his voice into the Sat Nav though! Imagine having Cantona direct you around!'

Another said: 'They should have made the boot kick activated as well!'

Cantona said: 'The legend is back. And so is The King.

'My crown sits on the back of the car, my iconic number 7 is on the door and a silhouette of my kung-fu kick is stitched into the front headrest. Remember, when a goat follows his hero in his car, it’s because the ruler on the racetrack returns.

'Thank you to the Ford Design team for my bespoke all-electric Capri. A new icon in classic ‘Signal Orange’ inspired by the Mark III Capri.'

'I've just been to Plaza Nueva in old town Bilbao where hundreds of United fans have been gathering and entertaining themselves by trying to kick footballs into the posh apartments surrounding the square - as well as taking pot-shots at workmen on the balcony.

'Less than seven hours to go until kick-off and there's a good-natured spirit in this part of Bilbao.

'Lots of United fans but a few Tottenham supporters too, not to mention locals in Athletic Bilbao shirts who dearly wish their team would have beaten United and be walking out at the San Mames tonight.'

Ledley King, the last Tottenham captain to lift a trophy back in 2008, says Tottenham want this more than Man United.

'These fans have been absolutely fantastic. They've had to wait a long, long time. We're going to do it today,' he told Sky Sports.

'I believe it. it's been 17 years, too long. I held the record for the fastest goal for a few years - I enjoyed that one. Not this one!

'Fans have travelled all over Europe to get here. I feel it in the air, something special is going to happen today.

'This has been in the making for weeks. Everything has been leading up to this game. League performances haven't been great but the focus has been on this. I feel confident.

'You could feel how much it meant to the Newcastle and Tottenham fans, hopefully it means more to us (than Man United) and that gets us over the line. Walking around the city, I sense it means more. Tottenham fans really believe it's their day today.

Rio Ferdinand didn't hesitate when posed the question by Mail Sport's Charlotte Daly.

For him, there's no doubt; Tottenham winnning the Europa League and finishing as low as 17th is much better than what Arsenal have achieved this season.

He was bold on the wing and it turns out he's bold in his views, too.

Former Man United star Nani believes his Portuguese counterpart Ruben Amorim has been doing 'great' at Old Trafford - despite leading them to their worst-ever Premier League season.

'So far he is doing great. It's not easy. So far it's good but we know he can do better. Tonight will be a big step for him to build next season,' he told Sky Sports.

'It's normal in football, after so long a journey of winning and winning, when the big heads of the club leave, it takes time to build up again.

'This is a Premier League match outside England. We have to do our best. It doesn't matter if we play good or not, we have to win.'

Biggest game in decades? I'm not so sure about that one.

One of the biggest, for sure. Ange Postecoglou has been wrapping his players in cotton wool, but that's just the tip of the icerberg.

Read below for an exclusive insight into their preparations.

Former Man United goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak has demanded patience for Andre Onana.

He says Onana's struggles are mostly down to the pressure United's performances put on him, and claimed David de Gea had to endure a similar trial.

He told Sky Sports: 'Yes, he's number one at the moment. David de Gea had a similar situation where the team didn't perform the right way and lots of critics went on him.

'It's normal for the goalkeeper to be on the spot when the team doesn't go the right way.

'He's a good goalkeeper and had some fantastic game this season. He's proven himself.

'United have struggled and it hasn't been easy for him but he's got the possibility to be number one for this club.'

Caption: 'whaaay!'

This guy is the peak of coolness. Hawaiian shirt. Tinted sunglasses. Fresh trim.

Wait a minute, VAR check. What's that? Foul play? Is that a... half and half scarf? Who is he supposed to be supporting?

Now, now. Before you all get irate, I sort of understand. Half and half scarves are a unique way to mark a memorable game. I, myself, have been partial to one in the past.

But making it my main one for this sort of game? VAR decision: red card.

Fair play to him, though, he pulls it off. I respect it.

Mail Sport caught up with Jermain Defoe to ask: if Spurs win the Europa League, will they have had a better season than Arsenal?

Side note: what a player. For club and country, he hit 235 career goals. Seventy-nine for Tottenham in 186 games (ignore the four in 34 at Bournemouth). Baller.

Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones, who retired last year, has backed the club's decision to not hold a bus parade if they win tonight.

They did not hold one for their Europa League triumph in 2017, the FA Cup in 2016 and 2024, or for the Carabao Cup in 2017 and 2023.

Paul Merson recently criticised the call, branding it 'arrogant' as trophies are never guaranteed.

But Jones, speaking to OLBG, understands the reported decison to have a barbecue for the players rather than a grandiose celebration.

'Yeah, it’s a sensible decision given the season that they’ve had.

'They’ve struggled in the league and for form and for all sorts of different reasons.

'I think if it were me and the team and I'd won the Europa League, I'm not sure I would be wanting a trophy parade either.

'I think it’s a sensible option, they can have a small win and celebrate at the training ground and prepare for next season, but they’ve got to win it first.'

One of the greatest midfielders ever, but lacking in the legs for the past two seasons.

I'm personally glad to see Casemiro picking up again, because he's a legend of the game and deserves to be remembered as such.

Read below how the Europa League is helping him transform his image.

David Bentley has compared tonight's two teams, and let's just say that one of them comes out as a clear favourite.

Gary Neville recently said that only Bruno Fernandes would be a guaranteed starter for Spurs. Does he even get in Bentley's combined team?

Watch below.

The tight shady streets of Bilbao's atmospheric Old Town are alive with fans. Not the boisterous chanting and scrapping variety currently going viral on social media but those strolling around to take in the charms and find some coffee to lessen the lingering effects of the night before.

The sun is up and a fine day is ahead. It might have a bit of a devil to get to for thousands of English fans but it is an authentic host city, welcoming and passionate about its football.

This stat from The Telegraph's Matt Law highlights just how abysmal the domestic form of both clubs has been.

They've each managed just one win in their last 10 Premier League games.

Between them they've lost 39 league fixtures this season, an almost unfathomably bad record. You'd be laughed away if you tried suggesting that at the start of the season.

Ah, it almost looks as idyllic as Wimbledon. Just need to trade the beer for strawberries and cream, though somehow I imagine that idea would sink like a lead balloon.

Manchester United's supporters are enjoying their fanzone, though of course, as the pictures show, there is the lingering spectre of the Basque Regional Police Force making sure nothing gets out of hand.

An unlikely ringleader has emerged among the Tottenham faithful in Bilbao: a boy with a trumpet, apprently called Sonny.

He has been leading fans through their favourite songs out in the streets, perched atop the shoulders of a fellow fan.

Get him on Britain's Got Talent!

Gary Neville is widely mocked for his miserable stint at Valencia, where he was perceived to be out of his depth and was sacked after four months.

That period included a 7-0 shellacking by Barcelona.

But it turns out Ruben Amorim's Premier League win rate at Manchester United is significantly worse.

The Portuguese barely wins more than one in five gamesin the league.

Can he turn a corner tonight?

Former Spurs striker Fernando Llorente met up with the club's current crop at the San Mames stadium.

He had a playful encounter with Son Heung-min, his old team-mate.

Nice touch from the Spaniard, who is more known for his career at Bilbao!

Victory tonight would be more poignant for Harry Maguire than most.

The Manchester United defender has had a rough time over the last few seasons but has rebuilt his standing at the heart of their defence.

DOMINIC HOGAN looks back on a turbulent few years and asks: how exactly has Maguire got here?

This has been billed as a £100million game but I'll have you know that the figures add up rather differently.

That's probably a decent average of the potential earnings off the back of this, but if you see this as a springboard for a long Champions League campaign, the revenue can pile up even higher.

Read our detailed piece below.

Walk a perilous path and you risk the consequences.

This is a brave bit of work from a pair of Manchester United fans, who run the gauntlet of rival supporters - and get a drink they didn't bargain for.

Alan Shearer has thrown his weight behind the Londoners for tonight.

The Premier League's top scorer points out that Spurs have the superior record this season. Ange Postecoglou's men have beaten United three times - twice in the league and once in the Carabao Cup.

Shearer told Betfair: 'This match is pretty impossible to predict when you look at how bad both teams have been. Spurs have done really well against Man United this season, so due to their record against them I'd say Spurs may be slight favourites.

'There are more negatives than positives for both teams when you look at them. I really haven't got a clue what to expect or what teams will turn up. It's a bit of a flip of a coin and it'll be a disaster for whoever doesn't win.'

Six years ago, when Tottenham were in the Champions League final against Liverpool, one Tottenham fan boasted that he had ignored orders from his wife to travel to Madrid.

Spurs lost 2-0 that day, and we have to ask the question: has he managed to sneak out for this one as well?

Can anyone enlighten us?

Rory McIlroy shared a moment with Rio Ferdinand and some other recognisable faces (namely Paul Scholes and TNT Sports commentator Darren Fletcher).

The Northern Irishman is a big fan of the Red Devils.

Ruben Amorim even invited him to parade his Masters trophy at Old Trafford recently, saying: 'You achieved something that a lot of people thought would be impossible, and we want that feeling in our stadium. So, I hope to see you soon at Old Trafford and to meet you.

With hotel rooms costing hundreds of pounds for a night, or even thousands, one supporter has claimed that he spent last night on a park bench in Bilbao.

If it's true, well, that's some effort.

Mail Sport's Nathan Salt has reported back to base.

He says the Man United fanzone is up more than 500 steps!

As you can see, plenty have already made the trek up to their footballing shrine for the day, and it's still nine hours before kick-off.

Spanish media have hit out at Manchester United and Spurs fans for 'destroying the Bilbao streets' amid reports of clashes.

Potentially around 50,000 fans in the city will be ticketless for this one and will therefore be watching the game around Bilbao.

A major security operation has been launched for the game.

Read more below.

SIMON JONES:

Two Academy Award winners have teamed up to write a song for Spurs ahead of this the Europa League final.

Released on Tuesday, To Dare is to Do is written around the club's motto and proceeds raised will go to Noah's Ark the children's hospice supported by Spurs.

Jimmy Napes and Paul Epworth are known for their work with artists such as Sam Smith and Adele, respectively, and were behind the James Bond themes 'Writing's on the Wall' and 'Skyfall'.

The two formed a bond while working on Band Aud’s ‘Do they know it’s Christmas’ in 2014.

Jimmy Napes said: 'This isn't about this season's highs and lows, or a cup final, it is a celebration of the club and its identity, including obviously its location in a certain part of London. I don't think I've ever had more fun making a record in my life. Tottenham til I die!'

Paul Epworth said: 'What started as a light-hearted conversation with Jimmy over a pint about the idea of working together soon turned into one of the most ambitious productions I've ever been involved with, not least because of the time deadlines and our ambition to get 60,000 people singing on it.

'No one asked for a new Tottenham song, I'm not sure anyone even wanted one, but Jimmy and I knew if we got it right and the release was timed correctly then it had the potential to help propel us to more glory, glory nights.'

I'll never spot being fascinated at the many bizarre ways football manages to promote itself.

And so here we have Casemiro getting a security check... and just sneaking through for a 'serious goal threat'.

Maybe he is a threat. The Brazilian has played in seven European finals and won all seven... against teams better than this Spurs outfit.

Here's your chance to feel like one of the players. Join them on a tour of the San Mames pitch, which will be largely the same as all other elite pitches of similar dimensions.

Pedro Porro spoke to reporters last night.

'We knew the final would be in Bilbao and for players like me that's very special. I'm very happy, but this is a very important moment for us, and we know it.

'The fans know it too. I think they give us that extra pressure from the outside. That’s fine. They haven't seen us win a title for a very long time but most important is to stay focused and do the best we can.

'It's true this season the two teams have faced each other numerous times, but it’s a final.

'We need to focus on ourselves and do best we can. We know what we have to do. If we are 100 per cent focused that’s the most important thing.'

LUKE POWER: Rio Ferdinand is scared that Tottenham could dominate his former side in one key area.

The fact he has only named one is credit to United... or a put-down to Spurs!

Read more below.

LUKE POWER:

Ange Postecoglou has ruled himself out of contention to be an entertainer at any kids' birthday parties this summer.

The Spurs boss hit back at a reporter whose publication ran a headline called: 'Ange Postecoglou teetering between hero and clown with Tottenham legacy on the line in Europa League final'.

Postecoglou has a point, to be fair. He's been managing since 1996 and won 21 trophies. Pretty good going.

LUKE POWER: A couple of Manchester United fans were surprised this morning to stumble across a famous face as they sweated it out in the gym.

None other than Ruben Amorim, decked out in a personalised United training top, was also pushing himself to the limits.

'Apparently he was having a massive arm day,' wrote the user who shared the photo on X, @utdbelles.

All the Spurs players are in Bilbao apart from Dejan Kulusevski who is recovering from knee surgery.

James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall could be seen strolling around the stadium in their tracksuits as the team trained last night.

Even those not in the squad such as Radu Dragusin, Sergio Reguillon and Timo Werner are here. Dragusin and Werner are injured. Antonin Kinsky and Fraser Forster are not in the squad either but they trained with the other goalkeepers in the San Mames on the eve of the final.

Former Spurs striker Fernando Llorente, a goal hero of the run to the Champions League final in 2019, was in the stadium on media duty.

Son heung-min and Ben Davies, the only survivors of that occasion, both jogged across to give him a huge hug before training. Lovely moment.

If Tottenham need any extra incentive, surely it's to silence one of their major critics: Domino's.

The pizza brand have claimed that they've delivered 1,569,227,300 pizzas (more than 1.5 billion) since Spurs' last trophy, the 2008 EFL Cup.

I think I've eaten about half of those. Ham and pineapple, for the record.

Ruben Amorim isn't going to win any awards for the cheeriness of his speech.

The Portuguese has become renowned for his withering assessments this campaign, although in truth there hasn't been much positive to speak of.

His men are unbeaten in Europe, which is a good sign, but he believes they will be forgotten if they fail at the last hurdle.

'It's not enough, winning the Europa League. It's not enough for all the support the fans gave us this season,' he said.

Read more of his comments below.

Ange Postecoglou insisted earlier this season that merely winning a trophy in a sub-par season would not represent signs of long-term progress for Spurs.

Now, his tune has changed somewhat: tonight is a chance to shed a mentality and a perception which has hung over the club for years. indeed, it's 17 years since their last trophy.

'I don't think my job is done here,' he said. 'I really feel like we are building something and what a trophy does is hopefully accelerate that. So, I still think there is work to be done.'

Whether he will get a chance to see through that work is another matter entirely, but he will have succeeded where many other Spurs bosses have failed if his men emerge victorious tonight.

They might be speaking a little prematurely, though that's certainly a boisterous show of support for the Mancunians.

Are you out in Bilbao? Let us know how it's been going for you!

Ah, how Man United could have done with a player like him tonight.

Rio Ferdinand certainly looks in the mood for this one, though there's little chance of him shouting 'Ballon d'Or' at any of tonight's actors.

He'll be one of TNT Sports' experts for tonight.

How about a little bit of morning reading?

Oliver Holt is one of the multiple Mail Sport supremos out in Spain for this one and has penned the following piece from Bilbao.

Football can unite!

We've seen trouble in previous European finals, and we've already had some clashes here, which we'll get on to later, but plenty of fans are showing goodwill to their rival supporters who have also made an arduous journey out to Spain.

You've got to respect it. Some people have made three-day journeys and forked out thousands on travel and accommodation fees for their loved ones.

Manchester United jetted out to Bilbao yesterday afternoon - admittedly not slumming it out on an economy flight - and took to the San Mames arena to take in their home for tonight.

Fans have travelled to Bilbao by sea, sky, and land for this one and they're intent on one thing: having a good time.

Around 80,000 supporters are expected to descend on the northern Spanish city, though apparently some locals were not aware that the game was happening, leading to some confusion when they saw the huge influx.

Rise and shine, it's Europa League final day!

Welcome to all our wonderful readers, wherever you are in the world, to our blog for the biggest game of Manchester United and Tottenham's seasons.

We're going to have everything in this blog - the atmosphere in Bilbao, all the views and news - so you won't want to go anywhere.

Let's get stuck in.

Jamie Carragher has stuck his neck on the line and predicted a win for Manchester United, something they've only managed 11 times in 29 games in 2025.

He says Tottenham's injuries - notably to James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Lucas Bergvall - will going to be their downfall.

'If the Tottenham [Hotspur] players weren’t injured, then it could have been a 50/50 chance of them winning. I still think that Manchester United will win,' he told the Stick to Football podcast, brought to you by Sky Bet.

'Not being able to bring someone off the bench for Tottenham doesn’t really help.'