Bilbao officials jet into London for Tottenham talks as surprise fan news emerges

Tottenham fans are busy finalising their plans for Tottenham’s Europa League final clash against Manchester United.

Although there have been reports that UEFA may move the venue to the UK, Spanish officials have nevertheless been making arrangements to host the two English clubs.

The match, which has been described as the biggest game for the club in years, could be a seminal moment for both the club and their under-pressure manager Ange Postecoglou should they succeed.

The Lilywhites will not only be hoping to celebrate their first major trophy in 17 years, but also get excited by the prospect of competing in the Champions League next year.

Ange Postecoglou
Credit: Imago

Fan numbers a cause for concern for Spanish authorities

Spurs fans have not had next to nothing to cheer about this season, with the club’s decline in the Premier League reaching a new low of 17th following their 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace (May 11).

Regardless, they have remained remarkably loyal, even travelling to the Arctic Circle to support their club during their European exploits.

They are set to take their devotion to another level for the final as, according to journalist Mike Keegan, 15,000 fans are set to travel to Spain despite not having acquired tickets.

That is likely to dwarf United’s expected 2000, prompting Spanish officials to travel to North London to discuss potential arrangements with the hierarchy.

With only 15,000 tickets being allocated to each club, Tottenham have arranged their own offering, but it will not be enough to satisfy the most ardent supporters.

Tottenham’s needs greater than United’s

Tottenham’s story this season has been uncannily similar to United’s, with both clubs excelling in Europe whilst plummeting in the Premier League.

Knockout RoundsUnited Next League ResultTottenham Next League Result
Round 16 First Leg1-1 D2-2 D
Round 16 Second Leg3-0 W2-0 L
Quarter Final First Leg4-1 L4-2 L
Quarter Final Second Leg1-0 L2-1 L
Semi-Final First Leg3-2 L1-1 D
Semi-Final Second Leg2-0 L2-0 L
Tottenham and United’s League results after each Europa League knockout fixture

Their league results following European games have been virtual mirror images of one another and they are separated by one point at the foot of the table, yet the wider consensus is that this trophy is far more pivotal for the London club.

United already won the Europa League in 2017 and have since lifted two domestic trophies, prompting Ruben Amorim to downplay the competition’s importance to his side.

Neither Postecoglou nor Spurs have the history to be so selective and must take this unique opportunity with both hands, especially with so many Spurs supporters showing their dedication.