Paul Merson disagrees with Carragher about Tottenham’s Europa League chances
Paul Merson disagrees with Carragher about Tottenham’s Europa League chances
Paul Merson has weighed in on who he believes is better positioned to lift the Europa League trophy this season between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur — and the former Arsenal star finds himself at odds with fellow Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher on the matter.
While Tottenham Hotspur still have important Premier League fixtures left to fulfil, it’s clear that Ange Postecoglou’s primary focus has now shifted toward their European campaign. Spurs are just two matches away from reaching their first European final since their memorable run to the Champions League final in 2019, and excitement is building around North London.
The Lilywhites are strong favourites to overcome Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in the semifinals, and many believe they have a genuine shot at silverware. According to Opta’s SuperComputer projections, Tottenham are currently the favourites to win the Europa League, in part due to their perceived easier route to the final. However, should they reach the final, overcoming either Manchester United or Athletic Club Bilbao will present a whole new level of challenge.
Paul Merson Backs Spurs for European Glory
Speaking recently on The Overlap, Jamie Carragher made it clear that he doesn’t see Tottenham beating Manchester United if both sides were to meet in the Europa League final. The former Liverpool defender cited the historical pedigree and mentality of the Red Devils as the decisive factors, suggesting United’s experience on the big stage would ultimately prove too much for Spurs.
However, Paul Merson sees things differently. Offering his own analysis in his Sportskeeda column, Merson stated that if he had to pick one English side to go all the way, he would back Tottenham over United.
“If I had to pick an English team to win the Europa League now, it would still be Tottenham,” Merson said. “Athletic Club will be a massive challenge for Manchester United. The fact that the final will be held in Bilbao gives the Spanish side added motivation — it’s effectively a home game for them.”
Merson’s comments highlight that while many view Manchester United as favourites on paper, there are significant obstacles in their path. Facing a fired-up Bilbao side at San Mames would be an intimidating assignment for any team, including Erik ten Hag’s men.
Who Would Postecoglou Rather Face in the Final?
As Spurs prepare to lock horns with Bodo/Glimt, Postecoglou will be fully aware that complacency could be fatal. The Norwegian outfit have already claimed some major scalps in this season’s Europa League campaign, showing that they are not to be underestimated. Tottenham will need to bring their very best if they are to secure a place in the final.
Should they reach the showpiece in Bilbao, the question then becomes: who would Tottenham prefer to face? While Athletic Club would have the advantage of playing at their home ground, a final against Manchester United would bring a different kind of pressure — a clash between two English giants, one fuelled by narratives of history, psychology, and reputation.
Some may argue that Postecoglou would prefer an all-English affair. Despite United’s European experience, the familiarity of facing a Premier League rival could suit Tottenham better than battling a buoyant Bilbao in front of their home crowd. Yet, for now, Postecoglou’s focus must remain firmly on the task at hand: ensuring Spurs take care of business against Bodo/Glimt before any thoughts turn to lifting the Europa League trophy.
One thing is certain: Tottenham’s European dream is alive and well — and if Merson’s prediction proves accurate, it could be a historic night for Spurs fans come the end of the season.