Tottenham Hotspur head coach Ange Postecoglou has delivered a spirited response to recent comments made by former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger, who questioned whether Europa League winners should be granted automatic qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
Wenger, now serving as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, voiced his concerns during an interview with BeIN Sports. He argued that while winning the Europa League should earn a team a spot in the same competition the following season, it should not necessarily guarantee a place in Europe’s top-tier tournament.
“They [Europa League winners] should automatically qualify for the Europa League again but not necessarily for the Champions League,” Wenger stated. “Especially when you’re in the Premier League, where already five teams can qualify. I think it’s something UEFA should look at and potentially reconsider.
“Of course, others will argue that the only way to maintain the competitiveness and appeal of the Europa League is to reward the winners with Champions League football, and that’s a valid point too.”
Unsurprisingly, Postecoglou wasn’t impressed with the remarks, particularly as they seemed to come just as Tottenham are firmly in contention for European glory. Spurs currently lead Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt 3-1 heading into the second leg of their Europa League semi-final. However, they’ll have to get the job done without key players James Maddison and Heung-Min Son, both sidelined through injury.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the crucial match, Postecoglou didn’t hold back in his response. With a mix of sarcasm and defiance, he suggested that the scrutiny was yet another example of the unique and often unfair narrative that surrounds Tottenham.
“That’s a debate that’s been going on for years, mate,” Postecoglou began, brushing off Wenger’s remarks with a wry smile. “At least this one only lasted what – eight days?”
He went on to express his confusion and frustration at why this issue is being raised now, and seemingly only because Spurs are in the conversation.
“I’ve never heard that before,” he continued. “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—Spurs does crazy things to people. It really does. You bring Tottenham into any football conversation, and suddenly everyone’s desperate to tear it down or devalue it in some way.”
Postecoglou then highlighted the inconsistency in the debate, pointing out that competition rules evolve and must be respected.
“Why wasn’t it an issue last season? Why is it suddenly controversial now? What’s changed? Last year, finishing fifth didn’t get you Champions League football. This year it does. Does that make the competition any less valid? No. These are the rules, and the rules clearly state that the Europa League winners earn a Champions League place.”
He also made it clear that while he respects Wenger and his legacy in football, even great minds can be affected by the relentless narratives that surround Tottenham Hotspur.
“I’ve got enormous respect for Arsène—he’s one of the true legends of the sport. But Spurs really do get into people’s heads. It’s almost funny,” Postecoglou concluded with a grin. “I love it. Bring it on!”
As Spurs prepare for one of their most important matches of the season, Postecoglou’s response not only defended his team’s right to fight for the Champions League, but also reinforced the unity and defiance he’s instilled in the club. Despite injury setbacks and external criticism, Tottenham remain focused on their European mission—and their manager is more than ready to take on any noise from the outside.
