Manchester United, Tottenham Reach Europa League Final in Bilbao

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, two of England's worst-performing Premier League teams this season, face off in the Europa League final in Bilbao, with the winner securing automatic qualification for the next season's UEFA Champions League and a substantial financial reward. Both clubs have struggled significantly in domestic competition, sitting near the relegation zone, with Manchester United in 16th place and Tottenham Hotspur in 17th, highlighting their poor league form despite their storied histories. The Europa League final is seen as a critical opportunity for these clubs to salvage their seasons and gain access to Europe's elite competition, often described as a "back door" entry to the Champions League. Meanwhile, Manchester City needs just four points from their final two matches to secure Champions League qualification, with a strong performance against Bournemouth potentially serving as a fitting farewell for star player Kevin De Bruyne at the Etihad Stadium. This contrast underscores the varying fortunes of English clubs in European and domestic competitions this season.