Over 3,000 Police Deployed After Manchester United, Tottenham Fans Clash Ahead Europa League Final in Bilbao

Ahead of the Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao, tensions between fans of both Premier League clubs have escalated into multiple violent clashes and disturbances across the city and nearby areas. Spanish media and local authorities reported incidents including fights, throwing objects, and public disorder, prompting the Basque Government to deploy over 3,000 heavily armed police officers and establish a two-layer security ring around the stadium, while fan zones were spaced apart to reduce confrontations. Despite the disturbances, no serious injuries or arrests have been reported, though some minor injuries required medical attention. The heightened fan violence has drawn criticism from Spanish outlets, reflecting concerns about the safety and conduct of supporters during the event. Meanwhile, some fans and public figures, such as Nigerian TV host Frank Edoho, have mocked Manchester United's poor performance, including their Europa League final loss to a lower-ranked Tottenham team, highlighting the frustration and disappointment among supporters. The final represents a critical opportunity for both clubs to salvage their struggling Premier League seasons amid this charged atmosphere.