All Eyes on Bilbao: Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United to Clash in the 2025 UEFA Europa League Final

San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, Spain, is set to host an electrifying all-English showdown between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United in the final of the 2024/25 UEFA Europa League on 21 May 2025. Despite both teams underwhelming in the Premier League this season, they now stand on the cusp of continental glory.

A Historic Encounter

The 2025 UEFA Europa League final marks the 54th edition of UEFA’s second-tier European club competition and the 16th since its rebranding from the UEFA Cup. This final will be the eleventh to feature two clubs from the same country, and the third all-English final, following Chelsea vs. Arsenal in 2019 and Manchester United vs. Chelsea in 2021 (UEFA Super Cup).

Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United have both tasted glory in this competition before. Spurs lifted the trophy in 1972 and 1984 during the UEFA Cup era, while United claimed their only Europa League title in 2017, under then-manager José Mourinho.

Venue: The Cathedral of Football

The iconic San Mamés Stadium—home to Athletic Club—will host the final. Located in the heart of Bilbao, Spain, the stadium has a capacity exceeding 50,000 and is known for its cutting-edge design and passionate atmosphere. Opened in September 2013, it replaced the historic old San Mamés and has already hosted major events, including the 2024 UEFA Women’s Champions League final, where Barcelona defeated Lyon 2-0.

Notably, the old San Mamés played host to the second leg of the 1977 UEFA Cup final and multiple matches during the 1982 FIFA World Cup.

Match Officials

The final will be officiated by Felix Zwayer, a highly experienced German referee. At 43 years old, Zwayer has officiated numerous high-profile UEFA matches and will bring his expertise to this critical encounter.

What’s at Stake?

Beyond the prestigious Europa League trophy, which at 15kg is the heaviest piece of UEFA silverware and notably has no handles, the winner will secure a coveted spot in the league phase of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League—provided they haven’t qualified through their domestic league. Additionally, the Europa League winner will earn the right to face the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League winners in the 2025 UEFA Super Cup.

Final Format

The final adheres to UEFA’s traditional format:

If the match ends in a draw after 90 minutes, it proceeds to extra time (two periods of 15 minutes).

If the score remains level after extra time, the winner will be decided by a penalty shoot-out. 

Context and Form

This year’s final is particularly notable due to the low domestic form of both finalists. Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United have underperformed in the English Premier League this season, raising eyebrows about their unexpected yet impressive runs to the final.

Their journey to Bilbao underscores the unpredictability and prestige of the Europa League—where redemption in Europe can turn a faltering domestic season into one of triumph.

Other UEFA Finals in 2025

UEFA Champions League Final:

Munich Football Arena, Munich, Germany

UEFA Conference League Final: Stadion Wrocław, Wroclaw, Poland

UEFA Women’s Champions League Final: Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal

The stage is set for a classic as Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United lock horns in Bilbao on 21 May 2025. With European silverware, Champions League qualification, and pride on the line, fans can expect drama, passion, and unforgettable football under the lights at San Mamés.

Source: UEFA.com