“They have don nothing special”- Roy Keane gives damning reasons on why NOT impressive Spurs scrap out win over United with a fluke goal
Roy Keane Slams Manchester United After Europa League Final Loss to Tottenham, Praises Spurs’ Defensive Resilience
Roy Keane didn’t hold back in his assessment of Manchester United’s crushing 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final. The former United captain, speaking on CBS Sports, claimed the result was no surprise, as it exposed the same flaws that have plagued United throughout a turbulent season.
Tottenham secured their first piece of silverware since 2008 thanks to a first-half goal from Brennan Johnson. The Welsh forward struck in the 42nd minute with a close-range finish that ultimately proved decisive. As Spurs celebrated a historic win in Bilbao, the contrasting images of dejected United players told the story of another wasted campaign.
Keane, well known for his blunt analysis, was scathing in his remarks. “Just when you think things can’t get any worse for Manchester United, they somehow manage to surprise you again—but not in a good way,” he said. “This loss wasn’t unexpected. It’s been the same all season—fragile performances masked by occasional luck, especially in Europe.”
He pointed out that United’s progress in Europe had papered over deeper structural problems within the squad. “They’ve been getting out of jail with European results, but the reality is, the cracks are massive. It’s been far too easy to beat them all year. This final just highlighted that again.”
Keane also expressed his disappointment with United’s lack of depth and creativity, particularly when chasing the game. “There wasn’t enough quality on the pitch, and there were limited options on the bench. When you’re throwing Harry Maguire up front as a makeshift striker in the dying moments, it says everything about where this team is right now.”
The goal that sealed United’s fate came under scrutiny from Keane, who criticized their defending. Luke Shaw was beaten too easily by the cross, and while Maguire was preoccupied with his defensive assignment, Johnson pounced for the winner. “That goal summed it up perfectly,” Keane explained. “Spurs didn’t do anything spectacular. It was simple, structured play. But United failed to do the basics defensively.”
Keane pointed out that a lack of concentration and poor positional awareness have been a recurring issue. “You’ve got to multitask as a defender. It’s not just about sticking with your man—you need to read the game. Shaw didn’t look sharp, and Maguire seemed to forget that there’s only one ball to defend. It’s this kind of sloppy thinking that’s cost them all year.”
While United floundered, Keane gave credit to Spurs for executing their game plan effectively, especially in the second half. “There were moments where we thought they might try to sit too deep, but they stayed disciplined. Credit to them—they defended with heart and intelligence. It was a great night for Spurs.”
Looking beyond the game, Keane also discussed the implications for Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou, whose future had been in doubt following a disappointing Premier League season. However, the victory, coupled with Champions League qualification, may have changed the narrative.
“Of course, the league campaign wasn’t up to standard, and I don’t know if the club had already made a decision before tonight,” Keane said. “But winning this final changes things. They now have European football at the top level and a trophy to celebrate. That’s something to build on.”
Keane suggested that Postecoglou deserves another season to prove himself, particularly with a crucial transfer window looming. “You’d like to think the board will back him now. He had a fantastic first season, and while this one was more difficult, you can’t ignore what he’s achieved tonight. Spurs will receive financial rewards for this win, and that could mean significant investment this summer.”
He concluded with a note of encouragement for the Australian manager: “I hope he stays. He’s laid down a foundation and deserves a proper chance to build on it. Why not give him another season and see where he can take them?”