Tottenham Tops Man United in Europa League Final as Postecoglou Fulfills Vow, Keane Laments Performance

Tottenham Claim Europa League Glory as Ange’s Promise Fulfilled
By Daily Mail Sport | May 21, 2025

Tottenham lifted their first European trophy in over a decade after a dramatic 2-1 win over Manchester United in Bilbao.

Ange Postecoglou’s vow to deliver silverware in his second season at Tottenham came true as Spurs edged a disjointed Manchester United side in a tense Europa League final at San Mames Stadium. The victory ended a 13-year trophy drought for the North London club, while United’s dismal campaign concluded with yet another disappointment.

Match Highlights
Tottenham struck first in the 27th minute when Son Heung-min capitalized on a defensive error, slotting past Andre Onana. United equalized against the run of play just before halftime via Alejandro Garnacho’s dipping strike, but Spurs sealed the win late on as substitute Brennan Johnson headed home Pedro Porro’s cross in the 83rd minute.

United, plagued by sluggish passing and a lack of creativity, failed to mount a response. Roy Keane lambasted their performance post-match: “This team has no identity, no fight. Under Erik ten Hag, they’ve regressed. It’s embarrassing.”

Ange Postecoglou delivered on his promise to win a trophy in his second season.

Postecoglou’s Redemption
The win marked a landmark moment for Postecoglou, who faced scrutiny earlier this season amid inconsistent league form. “This is for everyone who believed in the project,” he said. “We’ve built something special here, and this is just the start.” His bold substitutions, including Johnson’s introduction, proved decisive.

United’s Collapse
For United, the defeat intensified pressure on Ten Hag. Despite a strong Europa League run, their Premier League finish outside the top four and lack of cohesion drew scathing criticism. “The players look lost,” Keane added. “The club needs a massive rebuild—starting with the manager.”

Roy Keane didn’t hold back in his critique of United’s performance.

Key Moments

• 27’: Son opens the scoring after Casemiro’s misplaced pass.
• 45+2’: Garnacho curls in a stunning equalizer.
• 83’: Johnson’s header secures Tottenham’s victory.
• 89’: Marcus Rashford’s late chance saved by Guglielmo Vicario.

What’s Next?
Tottenham’s focus shifts to bolstering their squad for a Premier League title bid, while United face a summer of upheaval. Ten Hag’s future remains uncertain, with reports linking the club to potential replacements.

Son Heung-min’s early goal set the tone for Tottenham’s historic night.

Final Word
As Spurs fans revel in their triumph, United’s hierarchy must reckon with a stark reality: without major changes, their trophy drought could stretch even longer. For Postecoglou, the challenge now is turning this victory into a dynasty.