Another European final could be on the horizon for Tottenham Hotspur. But with injuries to two key players, how might Ange Postecoglou line up if the Lilywhites make it to Spain? Here’s Tottenham’s strongest XI for a potential Europa League final.
The likelihood of Tottenham Hotspur playing in yet another European final just six years after their 2-0 loss in the UEFA Champions League against Liverpool is very high.
Tottenham would need to navigate past Bodo/Glimt in Norway to book their place in the UEFA Europa League final, but with a two-goal cushion from the first leg, Ange Postecoglou’s men will feel confident about getting the job done.
Should they go through, another all-English final could be on the cards, after Manchester United put themselves in pole position to go through, having secured a convincing 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao at San Mames in their semi-final first leg.
Pundits have weighed in already. Jamie Carragher has backed Manchester United to beat Tottenham should the two meet, but Jamie O’Hara believes Spurs would win comfortably against Ruben Amorim’s side.
Regardless of who awaits them in the final, if Tottenham are to finally end a 17-year wait for silverware, they will need their strongest available XI.
Unfortunately, two of their key men are already ruled out for the remainder of the 2024/25 season, with Lucas Bergvall sidelined by an ankle injury and James Maddison struggling with a serious knee problem.
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So, with those absentees in mind, what is Tottenham’s strongest XI for a potential final?
Tottenham’s strongest XI for a potential Europa League final
Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario: The Italian has endured a rough patch in the Premier League lately, with a string of mistakes in his last four matches. While there is a case for Antonin Kinsky to come in, Vicario’s experience edges it, especially for a high-stakes final.
Right-back – Pedro Porro: The Spanish full-back has been one of Tottenham’s most consistent performers this season. With nine assists and three goals to his name, including decisive contributions in both the quarter-final and semi-final stages, the right-back slot is unquestionably his.
Centre-back – Cristian Romero: Despite the speculation surrounding his future, the Argentine remains one of the best defenders in this squad. His commanding performance in the second leg against Frankfurt reminded everyone why he is so vital to Spurs’ hopes.
Centre-back – Micky van de Ven: The Dutchman’s speed and reading of the game make him irreplaceable. Tottenham simply do not look the same when he is not on the pitch, and his presence at the back will be key to shutting down any attacking threat in a final.
Left-back – Destiny Udogie: The Italian has grown in stature throughout the knockout stages, combining solid defensive work with an attacking edge. Djed Spence is a decent option, but Udogie is a level above right now.
Pivot-midfielder – Yves Bissouma: With Lucas Bergvall out, the Malian midfielder becomes the obvious choice at the base of midfield. Archie Gray has potential, but with Bissouma playing most of the games now, he is sure to get the nod in the final.
Central-midfielder – Rodrigo Bentancur: The Uruguayan has arguably been Tottenham’s standout performer in Europe this season. His ability to dictate the tempo and break up play makes him undroppable in a game of this magnitude.
Central-midfielder – Dejan Kulusevski: With James Maddison injured, the Swede is the closest thing to a like-for-like replacement. Kulusevski has struggled for form recently, but Spurs will be hoping he rediscovers his spark in time for the final.
Left-midfielder – Brennan Johnson: Tottenham’s top scorer in the Europa League, the Welshman continues to deliver in front of goal. With his directness and finishing, he adds an edge that Spurs simply cannot afford to drop.
Striker – Dominic Solanke: The English forward has found form at the right time, scoring in each of his last two Europa League appearances. Tottenham will be banking on him to continue his scoring streak when it matters most.