Paul Merson slams Man United Europa League 'plan' - 'A bit of arrogance'
Manchester United can secure an unlikely place in the Champions League next season should they beat Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League
Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has taken aim at Manchester United following reports that they will not hold a trophy parade should they win the Europa League. Ruben Amorim's side have a chance at silverware when they take on Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao at the end of May, following their win over Athletic Club in the semi-final.
However, according to reports, the club are planning to keep celebrations low-key if they win the European competition. There is a lot more at stake than just silverware for both United and the North London club as they can secure qualification for the Champions League with a win as both clubs sit just above the relegation zone, following a poor season.
It has been a turgid season at Old Trafford with United consigned to a bottom-half finish following their 4-3 defeat to Brentford earlier this month.
But Amorim's campaign went from bad to worse when they slumped to disappointment at home to West Ham United last time out.
United face two Champions League hopefuls in their final two Premier League matches, with the Europa League final sandwiched in between, and six points from their remaining outings could only see them rise as high as 13th should results go in their favour.
However, reports suggest that the low-key celebrations would be marked with a barbecue at Carrington for the players, staff and their families as opposed to a tour of Manchester celebrating the success with fans.
And the news has been met with disgust by the former Arsenal star.
"The trophies do not come thick and fast," Merson told Sky Sports.
"Man Utd are a million miles off. Enjoy it (trophies) while you can.
"For me, it's a bit of arrogance.
"Winning trophies was the past, so enjoy the present. Who says they win another one for 15 years?
"Now they're going to have a BBQ, think of the fans!
"They'll let you know when the parade is on whether it was right to do.
"Do not leave the fans out because it is about the fans.
"I would want a parade.
"They could win a trophy and if they win it, they have won more than Arsenal.
"Arsenal would love to have a parade. It is hard to win trophies, so do not underestimate winning one.
"It is difficult."