100% passing: Spurs hero just proved why he’s a £100m star in the making in Bilbao
Tottenham Hotspur End 17-Year Wait for Silverware in Historic Europa League Triumph
Just like that, Tottenham Hotspur have etched their name into the history books once more.
After a season marred by disappointments, early cup exits, and an inconsistent Premier League campaign, Ange Postecoglou’s men delivered when it mattered most. On a dramatic night against Manchester United, Spurs rose to the occasion and walked off the pitch as Europa League champions — ending their agonizing 17-year wait for a major trophy.
The final in Bilbao might not be remembered for its technical brilliance or flowing football, but for Tottenham players and fans alike, the result is all that matters. This wasn’t just a win; it was a cathartic moment, a lifting of the long-standing weight of underachievement, and a night that will be cherished in North London for years to come.
Despite the lack of high-quality football, the game was full of grit, passion, and no shortage of heroic performances from the players in white. One such individual — a player whose stock is surely soaring — stood head and shoulders above the rest and may now be on his way to becoming a £101 million superstar.
Tottenham’s Heroes on a Night to Remember
Before diving into the standout individual, it’s only fair to acknowledge several other Tottenham players who rose to the occasion.
Brennan Johnson, often criticized for fading out of games, delivered a performance of immense value. The Welsh forward might not have been a constant menace, but his timely goal — the match-winner — secured his place in Tottenham folklore. The former Nottingham Forest man proved decisive when it counted most, and his efforts were rightly acknowledged with an 8/10 rating from Evening Standard journalist Dan Kilpatrick.
Another warrior on the night was Cristian Romero. Wearing the captain’s armband for much of the game, the Argentine led by example. Though he occasionally danced on the edge of discipline, Romero showed composure and aggression in equal measure, neutralizing United threats like Rasmus Højlund and later Joshua Zirkzee. For his efforts, he walked away with the Man of the Match award — a fitting recognition for a commanding display.
Then there was Yves Bissouma, a player who has had his share of criticism throughout the season. On this grand stage, however, the Mali midfielder looked every bit the complete player Spurs hoped he would be. He shielded the backline, broke up United’s attacks, and even delivered a few eye-catching passes that opened up play. Kilpatrick’s 8/10 rating was well deserved for a performance full of energy and discipline.
Micky van de Ven: Tottenham’s Next £101 Million Man
Among all the standout performances, one man’s display stood above the rest — Micky van de Ven. The Dutch centre-back, who joined Spurs from VfL Wolfsburg, delivered a masterclass in defensive awareness, athleticism, and calm under pressure.
If Romero, reportedly valued at around £101 million last year, is considered the benchmark, Van de Ven surely isn’t far behind — and on this evidence, he might even surpass that figure soon. His statistics from the final speak for themselves: five clearances, two blocks, and — perhaps most impressively — a 100% pass completion rate. But the moment that encapsulated his value came when he cleared a Højlund header off the line after a misjudged cross by Guglielmo Vicario. It was a goal-saving intervention that preserved Tottenham’s lead and ultimately secured their place in history.
Dan Kilpatrick awarded him a 9/10 for his efforts, describing him as “composed and commanding at the back.” His leadership in defense provided a backbone for Spurs to build upon throughout the game.
Respected talent scout Jacek Kulig added further praise, hailing Van de Ven as “one of Tottenham’s absolute heroes.” That kind of recognition is not handed out lightly, and in this case, it’s fully justified.
A New Era Begins
This Europa League triumph represents more than just silverware — it symbolizes a turning point for Tottenham Hotspur. Under Ange Postecoglou, the team has endured ups and downs, but now they have a tangible reward for their perseverance and belief. More importantly, performances like Van de Ven’s hint at a future where Spurs aren’t just chasing trophies but consistently winning them.
With a core of players like Romero, Bissouma, Johnson, and Van de Ven — all showing what they’re made of on a European stage — Tottenham fans can finally look to the future with genuine hope.
And if Romero’s value has soared to £101 million, it’s only a matter of time before Van de Ven joins him in that elite bracket — not just as one of Spurs’ best, but as one of Europe’s finest defenders.