Gary Neville makes ‘incredible’ Man Utd claim ahead of Tottenham showdown
Gary Neville has spoken out as Tottenham prepare to take on Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final.
Thousands of United and Spurs fans are travelling to Bilbao to witness the clash between the two Premier League sides, who are both looking to end miserable seasons on a high by winning at the Estadio de San Mamés on Wednesday (21 May).
Ange Postecoglou is under immense pressure to provide Tottenham with a much-needed trophy as recompense for guiding the Lilywhites to 17th in the Premier League with one game left to play.
United sit only one point above them, but are more accustomed to lifting silverware.
However, that may not be enough to convince Ruben Amorim to stay beyond the summer, with Neville sharing his thoughts ahead of the showpiece in Spain.
Neville labels United trophy haul ‘incredible’
Neville has been very outspoken about issues surrounding his former club, often targeting the ownership, the staff and the playing squad.
Nevertheless, while speaking on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football (19 May), the 50-year-old praised United’s ability to continue winning trophies while previewing the showdown with Spurs.
| Season | Tottenham League Position | Manchester United Position | Trophies for United |
| 2023/24 | 5 | 8 | FA Cup |
| 2022/23 | 8 | 3 | Carabao Cup |
| 2021/22 | 4 | 6 | – |
Neville said, “It’s a silver lining around a very dark cloud [winning the Europa League]. To win a trophy should never be disrespected, and it will be a brilliant achievement to win three trophies in three years.
“It is an incredible achievement in an era where United have been really poor, but to be where they are in the league – it’s incredible.”
It is a stark contrast to Spurs, who have finished higher than United in five of the last nine seasons, but have nothing to show for it.
Tottenham’s needs are greater than United’s
Tottenham fans are desperate to see their side lift a trophy after a 17-year wait and end the notorious labels of failure associated with the club.
Daniel Levy will be equally keen to relieve some of the pressure on his shoulders, especially as the League Cup in 2008 is the only trophy Tottenham have won during his time as chairman.
The financial gains of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League would be equally welcome for both finalists. However, Tottenham’s squad is more disillusioned with the club’s direction, and the North London club are more susceptible to losing key players should they miss out on Europe.