Although it’s challenging for Manchester United to redeem a lacklustre season, Wednesday’s Europa League final will play a critical role in shaping the team’s future, with a coveted spot in the Champions League at stake and head coach Ruben Amorim facing immense pressure.
The once-mighty United find themselves sitting 16th in the Premier League table, making victory in the Europa League clash against Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao their sole pathway back into European competition.
A defeat would not only be a significant setback for the already-heartbroken United supporters but also have a substantial financial impact. Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has estimated the value of Champions League qualification at between £80 and £100 million, encompassing revenue from broadcasts, matchdays, and commercial activities.
“Champions League can change everything,” Amorim remarked to the media recently. “At this moment, we are not adequately equipped to be genuinely competitive in the Premier League and handle the Champions League. Being in the Champions League allows for a different budget, enabling us to enhance our squad for the next season.”
Lifting the Europa League trophy would be a cause for celebration in an otherwise dismal season.
The 1-0 defeat to Chelsea in the Premier League on Friday marked United’s 18th loss of the season, signifying that they will conclude the league campaign without achieving back-to-back wins for the first time in the club’s history.
This season’s tally of 18 defeats is the highest since the 1973-74 season when they lost 20 matches—the last time they were relegated from the top tier. Moreover, they have gone eight straight league games without a victory.
The 40-year-old Amorim highlighted United’s capacity to elevate their performance on the European front. The side remains unbeaten in the Europa League this season and convincingly defeated Athletic Bilbao 7-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals.
Amorim’s squad was on the verge of elimination against Olympique Lyonnais in the quarter-finals until late goals from Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire—one in the dying moments at 121 minutes—dramatically secured United’s progression.
“We head into the final unbeaten, and I believe we should view this as a positive aspect,” defender Diogo Dalot stated on United’s official website.
“Playing in these competitions is always challenging when facing teams from various countries with different playing styles than we are accustomed to in England. Achieving consistent results is something we can take as a positive from this season.”
A win in the final would alleviate some of the criticism towards Amorim, similar to how United’s FA Cup triumph last season temporarily buoyed former manager Erik ten Hag—who signed a one-year contract extension just days later but was dismissed on October 29 after a dismal start to the current season.
The lack of progress under Amorim has raised doubts among some fans.
Nonetheless, he remains optimistic despite the high stakes.
“Naturally, we have to have faith,” Amorim said regarding Wednesday’s final. “I feel quite confident. I believe my players are prepared for this match.”
“They understand the significance, not just for us but for our supporters and the club. After this tumultuous season, we are determined to fight for the one thing that can help us look back on this season in a different light.”
“We will be fully prepared for the final. It’s a different context and a different game altogether. The key factor is the shift in mentality within my squad. Their competitive spirit is paramount for me.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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