Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has weighed in on the upcoming Europa League final, confidently backing his former club to lift the trophy—even as they prepare to face a Tottenham Hotspur side that has already beaten them three times this season.
Both clubs sealed emphatic victories in their semi-final second legs to set up what promises to be a thrilling all-Premier League showdown in the Europa League final on May 21. United dismantled Athletic Club 4-1 at Old Trafford, completing a dominant 7-1 aggregate win. Meanwhile, Tottenham made light work of their tie with Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt, securing a composed 2-0 away victory that added up to a 5-1 aggregate triumph.
It’s a remarkable twist in a season that has been largely underwhelming for both English giants. Manchester United and Spurs currently sit 15th and 16th in the Premier League table, respectively, far from the top-four race and engulfed in domestic disappointment. Yet both clubs have found new life in Europe, with the final now representing a golden opportunity—not just for silverware, but also for a backdoor route into next season’s Champions League.
Despite Tottenham’s superior head-to-head record this season, Scholes believes United’s storied past and winning pedigree could prove decisive.
“I’m not saying it’s a guarantee, but history gives Manchester United a serious edge,” Scholes told TNT Sports. “We all know Spurs have beaten them three times already this season, and I really rate that Tottenham side. Ange Postecoglou has them playing some great football. But when you look at United and their history in Europe, they remind me a bit of Real Madrid—sometimes they don’t even need to be at their best to get the job done.”
He added, “Spurs will fancy their chances if they watch the first 70 minutes of United’s second leg against Bilbao, where things weren’t going smoothly. But I still think the experience, the history, and the mentality of Manchester United gives them a slight advantage. I really like Ange and the work he’s doing, but I lean toward United getting it over the line.”
Scholes’ former teammate and fellow TNT pundit Owen Hargreaves echoed the sentiment, emphasizing just how much is on the line for both clubs.
“It’s going to be an amazing final—so much at stake,” Hargreaves said. “United, even in a rough season, could win a European trophy and get into the Champions League. That just speaks volumes about the stature and resilience of this club. Right now, I’d say momentum is with United. There’s a real buzz around the place.”
United’s road to the final wasn’t without its challenges. Athletic Club threatened an unlikely comeback when Mikel Jauregizar gave the Spanish side an early lead at Old Trafford. But United responded with resilience and class. A dazzling brace from Mason Mount, combined with goals from Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund, turned the tide in their favor and sealed the aggregate victory.
Head coach Ruben Amorim praised his squad’s spirit after the game. “We owed this to our supporters,” he said. “They’ve stood by us in a difficult season. I know we haven’t always met expectations, but we’re fighting—and now we’re in a European final.”
Tottenham, on the other hand, produced a professional performance in a tricky away tie. Second-half goals in quick succession from Dominic Solanke and Pedro Porro ensured safe passage to the final. Manager Ange Postecoglou was full of praise for his team’s composure and determination.
“I couldn’t be prouder of the players,” said the Australian. “We knew this was a tough venue with a strong home record and a challenging pitch. But the boys managed it really well. We’re thrilled to be in the final, and we’ll be ready.”
Now, all eyes turn to Dublin, where two of England’s biggest clubs—both desperate to salvage their seasons—will go head-to-head for European silverware and a precious Champions League spot. Will history favor the Red Devils, or will Spurs finally break their trophy drought under Postecoglou?
United legend Paul Scholes makes unbiased analysis when making his pick between Spurs and Man Utd Europa Winner
