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Gazza shares prediction

Paul Gascoigne is backing former club Tottenham to win their Europa League final with Manchester United.

But the England legend is worried Spurs rely on Son too much, especially in the wake of the club's decision to sell Harry Kane to Bayern Munich.

Gazza told ESportsInsider.com: "Well, it's hard to call the winner because they've both been bad this season.

"They’ve not done anything, not won anything and it will be a right battle out there. Both teams are capable of winning.

"I don’t know though, I hope Tottenham will win, but Manchester United are a strong team as well.

"I just look at the front line. I think to myself, who's going to score the goals? And since Spurs sold (Harry) Kane, they're relying a hell of a lot on Son.

"And Son will be feeling it. I think the pressure is showing when you follow in someone's footsteps like Kane.

"But he's doing well. I like Son as a player. He puts so much effort in and work rate, so it's good."

Ex-Man Utd hero predicts Spurs win...

Gordon Strachan hasn't made the trip here to Bilbao to watch the Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham.

Which might be a good thing for him, considering Strachan has tipped Spurs to beat his former club in the crunch showdown. Strachan, who made 160 league appearances for United during the 1980s, told Beste Online Casino Nederland:

"I'd obviously like to see Manchester United win the Europa League because they're my old team. But I have a close affinity with Ange Postecoglou, being a fellow ex-Celtic boss!

"If Ange does leave Tottenham, he’ll leave the fans with memories of some wonderful games and goals, and it’s not often you can say that about a manager in the Premier League. He won’t be forgotten.

"I don't think many people have a clue how this final is going to turn out. I don't think it will be a 1-0 to either team. These clubs are incapable of that. I also don’t think it will go to extra-time, it will be decided in 90 minutes.

"Tottenham will come out of the blocks fast. My prediction is 3-2 to Spurs, and Ange to win a trophy in his second season!"

BREAKING: Fergie's en route!

ManchesterUnited have confirmed Sir Alex Ferguson is jetting to Bilbao to cheer on his favourite football club tonight.

Fergie led United to numerous European triumphs during his glorious managerial career at Old Trafford. These included winning the Champions League title, most famously in 1999 and then again in 2008 in Moscow.

But back then winning was part of the club's DNA, unlike these modern times.

Yet given what is at stake in this seismic clash with Tottenham, no-one will be more aware than Fergie just how vital it is United emerge triumphant.

And the Scot, who is expected to arrive in Bilbao in the next two hours, will be hoping it won't be 'squeaky bum time' in the San Mames Stadium.

Mainoo enjoys 'influence'

Kobbie Mainoo is not expected to have much of a say in tonight's proceedings in Bilbao.

But despite the England midfielder having to settle for a place on the Manchester United bench, he can at least boast more power and influence elsewhere.

A study had revealed Mainoo is now the fourth most influential footballer in Europe.

And the highest-ranked Premier League star, according to the findings.

The survey has factored in such things as potential Instagram earnings, Instagram follower increase over one and three-year periods, the number of authentic followers and Instagram engagement.

How the life of a footballer has changed.

Tension building

The tension is building in Bilbao for Man United and Spurs fans ahead of tonight’s Europa League final.

Supporters of both teams are mingling together throughout the city centre exchanging good natured chants, banter and insults, as they pack the local bars.

Thousands of United fans have taken over the picturesque Plaza Nueva square - hoofing footballs into the air and setting off red flares - as they down pint after pint.

Dozens of flags and banners have been hung from the scaffolding around the square as the Red Army enjoys the party atmosphere.

Ryan Tunicliffe, from Middleton, Manchester, arrived on Tuesday night via Amsterdam. He said: “It’s fantastic, everyone is having a great time. I think it’ll be a close game, both teams have been cr*p all year. But as the saying goes, ‘Lads, it’s Tottenham.”

His pal Mark Leigh said: “United will do it. They’ve been sh*t in the league but really good in Europe. We’re going to have a couple more and head off to the stadium.”

United's hotel woe

Manchester United haven't had it all their own way on their second trip to Bilbao in three weeks.

When United beat Athletic Bilbao 3-0 at the San Mames Stadium in the first leg of their semi-final three weeks ago, Ruben Amorim and his players stayed in a Melia Hotel near the city's Guggenheim Museum.

They wanted to stay there again, given the players loved it there and the way the result went in in Bilbao, but UEFA delegates hotels for the finalists in the Europa League, with the United forced to stay elsewhere.

Although they managed to book some rooms at the Melia for some staff, as well as another one just outside Bilbao, for guests and VIPs.

Tottenham are staying at The Carlton, a plush city centre hotel, which was used as a base by Athletic Bilbao before their semi-final first leg against United.

A celebratory air... not quite

Considering how bad these two sides have been for the most part, it's unsurprising that few fans in Bilbao are confident about tonight.

OK there's some United fans who think their name is on the trophy.

But Spurs fans are there much more in hope than expectation. They might have beaten United three times already this season, but so bad have the been in the past nine months, few are predicting victory with any sort of confidence.

Punters back Man Utd

It remains to be seen if the smart money is on Manchester United or Tottenham for tonight's Europa League showdown in Bilbao.

But most of it is being placed on United.

Most punters are struggling to call the game, not least because of how bad these two English rivals have been this season.

Yet when it comes to the betting market, United are attracting the bulk of the interest.

William Hill spokesman Lee Phelps said: "The highly-anticipated Europa League final between Manchester United and Spurs is upon us, and while many are struggling to call the game, it’s been one-way traffic in the betting for Ruben Amorim’s Red Devils.

"United are favourites to win the tie in 90 minutes at 13/10. We have seen three times the amount of stakes on Amorim's side in this market, compared to money placed on Spurs."

Man Utd feeling "very confident"

The mood within the Manchester United camp ahead of tonight's all-or-nothing Europa League final showdown with Tottenham is "very confident" - according to sources close to the squad.

There is a fine line between confidence and arrogance, but those who have been with Ruben Amorim and his players at the United team hotel in Bilbao this morning say the mood is upbeat and there is a a real sense of confidence among the players and staff that they can get the job done tonight and lift the trophy - and with it a ticket to next season's Champions League, which is worth up to £100million in revenue.

'Leaked' Lineups

There's been a lot of chatter, as expected, on the starting lineups of each side tonight.

From a Spurs POV, it's centres around whether Son starts ahead of Richarlison, the two in the heart of midfield and whether James Maddison - having travelled to Bilbao - is actually able to play any part.

For United it's more focused on defence and where Ruben Amorim places his trust with Matthijs de Ligt having been ruled out and if it'll be Amad or Alejandro Garnacho in one of the three attacking positions. Luke Shaw and Mason Mount are back fit again and have been pushing to start.

There are growing suggestions that this is how each side will line up this evening.

Man Utd: Onana; Mazraoui, Maguire, Yoro; Dalot, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu; Garnacho, Fernandes; Hojlund.

Tottenham: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bissouma, Bentancur, Sarr; Johnson, Solanke, Son.

Shearer tips Spurs win

Alan Shearer is backing Tottenham to beat Manchester United and end their trophy drought.

"This match is pretty impossible to predict when you look at how bad both teams have been," Shearer told Betfair. "Spurs have done really well against Man United this season, so due to their record against them I'd say Spurs may be slight favourites.

"There are more negatives than positives for both teams when you look at them. I really haven't got a clue what to expect or what teams will turn up. It's a bit of a flip of a coin and it'll be a disaster for whoever doesn't win.

"Given what’s at stake for both clubs, it could have an impact on the game. There's so much relying on both teams, managers and both clubs' short-term futures. There's no exaggeration that both teams need an injection of five or six players to try and compete again and that's why the stakes of this game are enormous.

"Just because of their record over the last five or six games against them, and particularly this season, I'll go for a Spurs win. It wouldn't surprise me if the game goes all the way to penalties, but I'll go for Spurs to win in normal time."

Maguire makes "inconsistent" admission

Harry Maguire has admitted Manchester United have fallen well below the standard expected of them this season, with Ruben Amorim's side down in 16th place in the Premier League.

Maguire said: "This season we've been far too inconsistent. We haven't won enough in the Premier League, it's not been good enough and we know that. The Europa League has been different, we've performed at a high level.

"I'm sure next season we will improve an awful amount, with a full pre-season and as players we're looking forward to that. But we've got a big game here and that's first and foremost. It's a special night, a special occasion and we've prepared well the last few days and it's one we're looking forward to."

Rooney makes Sister Act confession

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has told fans how he watched Sister Act as he prepared for his European final in 2008.

Appearing at the United fanzone in Bilbao Rooney also backed his old team to beat Spurs tonight so the fans can enjoy a few “bevvies”. Thousands have attended the zone in a park above the city as Rooney went on stage with fellow aces Wes Brown, Andy Cole and Denis Irwin.

He told the cheering crowd: “I remember the final in 2008, I went in the room and watched Sister Act.” He added: “It’s so good to be here, I hope the lads tonight give everyone the chance to go and get a few bevvies and enjoy the night.”

When asked how many goals he would score in this current United side he said: “I would like to think me and Coley would have scored more than the forwards have this season.

“It’s been a tough season, difficult to watch. But to have the opportunity to win a European trophy and get back in the Champions League, I hope they can get the club back to where it needs to be.”

Wes Brown told the United fans: “I was out late last night - let’s hope I can go out late tonight.”

Fans sleeping on park benches

Manchester United fans have revealed the various lengths they've gone to in order to be in Bilbao for the Europa League final. United will face Tottenham on Wednesday night at the San Mames Stadium.

With Bilbao relatively isolated in the Basque Country, hotel and flight prices have skyrocketed ever since United and Spurs booked their places in the final. That has forced fans to either fork out massive prices for hotels or get creative.

Some have plumped for hostels, with one fan tweeting: "€450 to stay in a 10 bed prison cell for 2 nights. Bilbao is well and truly on." Others have bitten the bullet and paid out for hotels, with one saying: "Made it to my hotel in Bilbao. €950 for two nights. Asked how much it would have been without the football. €150 she said, apologetically."

‌One three-star hotel in Bilbao is selling rooms for £4000 per night, a huge increase on normal days. Given those massive prices, some supporters have even taken to sleeping on park benches in Bilbao.

One man shared a photo of himself lying on a bench in the Spanish city, with the caption: "There’ll be thousands of reds, without any beds. Park bench for the night in Bilbao it is."

Amorim makes "not a big thing" claim

Ruben Amorim has claimed Manchester United winning the Europa League "is not a big thing" as he calmed the excitement around possibly lifting the trophy in Bilbao on Wednesday night.

He told CBS Sports : "If you win the Europa League in Manchester United, I'm sorry, it is not a big thing. You need to go for Premier League and the Champions League - and we are so far away. That is my feeling. Of course it would be a title, a European title, but it is not enough."

Klinsmann shares prediction

Tottenham legend Jurgen Klinsmann believes the Europa League Final could be the game that makes or breaks Ange Postecoglou. Spurs face Manchester United in Bilbao on Wednesday night with a place in next season’s Champions League up for grabs.

Both Postecoglou and Reds’ boss Ruben Amorim will finish the Premier League campaign in the lower reaches of the table after suffering defeats at Aston Villa and Chelsea respectively on Friday night.

‌And Klinsmann said: "It’s such an interesting game because both clubs have been so disappointing in the Premier League this season. Of course it is an important moment for both clubs because there is a place in the Champions League for the winners.

‌"But it is also a huge game for both managers - and especially Ange. I think Amorim will be given more time to establish his own team at United, but for Postecoglou it is clear that he is in a completely different position at the end of his second year.

"If he wins the Europa League then I hope it will buy him more time to get things right because I know that Spurs is such a fantastic club. There is so much on the line in this final and because the teams have been so inconsistent, it’s impossible to predict what would happen."

Dominos take dig at Spurs

Dominos have taken a dig at Tottenham ahead of the final by unveiling a live billboard outside the club's stadium that highlights how many pizzas they have delivered since Spurs last won a trophy.

"We’re not taking sides but if Spurs deliver in Bilbao we’ll happily reset the counter to zero," Domino's Sports Specialist Izzy Gardener said. "At Domino’s, we always deliver – now it’s their turn to do the same in the final. And of course, all eyes are on Ange… no pressure, mate."

Teddy Sheringham's prediction

The former Manchester United and Spurs star has made his prediction ahead of tonight's clash in the Basque country.

Here's what he reckons will go down....

I could see there being a lot of goals in the game, because neither team can defend, and neither of them want to play defensively. I see a very high-scoring, open game. I’m going to predict a 4-3 win, but I don’t know which team will edge it.

I think either way, it’s going to be goals galore and it will be end-to-end stuff.

If I was looking at this from Man United's point of view, then I would be looking at the weaknesses in the Tottenham defence, but as I said, United’s back four is hardly a tight ship. Whoever can be more solid at the back will have an advantage and it might come down to which team makes fewer mistakes, because both sides have got a rick in them.

If it goes to penalties. I think the pressure will be massively on Manchester United. A shootout could really affect them mentally, with all the implications of the result.

Sheringham was speaking to Prime Casino.

Amorim adamant!

Ruben Amorim is adamant he prepared for the Europa League final the right way by playing strong teams, rather than resting players ahead of Manchester United's showdown with Tottenham.

Amorim played a near full-strength side in United's last game, a 1-0 defeat at Chelsea, while Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou rested most of his first-choice selection for their 2-0 loss at Aston Villa.

Asked if that gave Spurs an advantage over United ahead of their meeting in Bilbao, Amorim said:

“An advantage? I don't know. But you have to see the context. I don't know the context of Tottenham, but what I know is we had the last Europa League game against Athletic Bilbao.

“We had that game and then we rested some players, because we were afraid of some injuries. Then we had a full week to prepare for the game. I felt, with five days to the final, the best thing to prepare for the final was to give time to the players to play.

"So I cannot respond from Tottenham's side, but for me it was really clear.

“We need to compete and the best way to prepare for something is to compete and I had that feeling.

"I pushed the players against West Ham in the end of the game and I felt that against Chelsea we should show something, to prove that when we are focused and when we play our game, we can control any game in any place. So it was a good day to compete to prepare for the final. That was the idea.”

ANALYSIS: Can United end on a high?

According to the bookmakers, in this battle of the Premier League's most miserable this season (excluding the relegated teams, obviously), United are favourites tonight.

That's despite being turned over three times by Spurs already this term.

Ruben Amorim's men have been awful in the league and he's only seen things get worse since replacing Erik ten Hag. But this European run has earned him some credit with fans. If he wins tonight and they enter next season's Champions League, it WILL have saved their season - and give him more time to build and get his ideas across.

Certainly, the United camp was much more relaxed than Spurs after arriving on Tuesday.

Keane lands new job

Manchester United legend Roy Keane will be making his punditry debut for a new broadcaster at the Europa League final. Keane is a regular pundit for both Sky Sports and ITV Sport, but he will be working for a different broadcaster for the final.

CBS Sports have announced that he will be part of their punditry team alongside regulars Jamie Carragher and Micah Richards, while Anita Jones will be presenting the US broadcaster's coverage.

Fellow United legend Peter Schmeichel will also be working for CBS as a pitchside reporter along with Guillem Balague. Former referee Christina Unkel is also set to offer her expertise, while Clive Tyldesley and ex-England goalkeeper Rob Green will be on commentary duty.

Man Utd and Spurs fans brawl

Footage has emerged showing Manchester United and Tottenham fans brawling ahead of the Europa League final.

In the footage, supporters can be seen throwing punches and objects at each other in San Sebastian. According to the Sun, authorities were alerted at around 9.20pm after residents on Fermín Calbetón Street witnessed the violence.

It is claimed the fight began when two groups of fans began 'shouting and hurling insults' and that it 'quickly escalated into a full-blown brawl'.

Ferdinand shares concerns

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand fears the team could struggle physically against Tottenham in the Europa League final, admitting that Ruben Amorim's men "can't keep up with any team in the Premier League". The Red Devils have flown out to Bilbao hoping to finish their awful season with silverware, with Spurs standing in their way.

And Ferdinand worries that his old team lack the pace and physicality of their Premier League rivals, arguing that they have performed well in Europe this season because they are yet to come up against an English team.

"The worrying thing for me from a Man United perspective is that physically we can’t keep up with any team in the Premier League,' he said, speaking to talkSPORT. "If they go man-to-man and go toe-to-toe with us we’re at a disadvantage because our profile of our players at Man United are not players that can run as hard and as fast, and as long, and they’re not as powerful as other teams.

"That’s a big thing in the Premier League. In the Europa, we’re overpowering every team. There’s only one team I’ve watched us play against in the Europa League that we struggled against and thought 'Ooh, that was a bit too close for comfort'. Rangers, who are more akin to a Premier League side, physically. So that’s the concern for me in the final playing against a Premier League team, who have beaten us three times, that physically can, minimum, match us."

Manchester United's game against Tottenham in the Europa League final in Bilbao on Wednesday night will be available to watch for free online, via the Discovery+ app

Manchester United take on Tottenham in an all-Premier League affair in the Europa League final in Bilbao on Wednesday night. The stakes are high for both clubs, who can end the season with silverware, despite enduring miserable domestic campaigns.

With just one game remaining, United sit 16th in the Premier League, a place better off than Spurs. Both Ruben Amorim and Ange Postecoglou are under huge pressure to deliver in the Basque Country, having failed to meet expectations in the Premier League.

The winner of tonight's match will earn a place in the 2025/26 Champions League - a considerable prize, both in financial terms and in attracting a higher calibre of player this summer.

The pressure has been evident in the build-up, with Postecoglou clashing with reporters in his pre-match press conference over suggestions defeat will make him a "clown".

Tottenham have the chance to win a first trophy since 2008 and continue Postecoglou's personal run of lifting a trophy in his second season.

Meanwhile, United can win the Europa League for the second time, having secured it back in 2016/17, and make it trophies in successive seasons, following their FA Cup victory in 2024.

Thousands of supporters have made their way over to northern Spain for the clash, which will take place at Athletic Club's San Mames Stadium, while millions will be watching at home on TV around the world. You can join them, for free, by following the instructions below.

How to watch Man Utd vs Tottenham for free

As usual for Europa League matches, it will be shown live on TNT Sports 1 or TNT Sports Ultimate, with coverage beginning at 6pm BST and kick-off at 8pm.

However, you will need a subscription to TNT Sports to watch that broadcast, which will be fronted by pundits Gareth Bale, Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes and Glenn Hoddle, with Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist on commentary duties.

Subscribers via Discovery+ Premium, EE, Sky or Virgin Media TV can also take in all the build-up and in-game coverage. Prime Video customers with the basic Discovery+ account will be able to watch the Uefa finals on the Prime Video app.

For those who don't already have any of those subscriptions, there is a way to watch tonight's game. That's because a live stream is being made available for free on the Discovery+ app.

All you need to do is download the Discovery+ app and register your details - and you don't even need to sign up for a subscription.

Manchester United take on Spurs in a make-or-break Europa League final clash in Bilbao on Wednesday evening but the Red Devils are going to sport a slightly new look for the game

Manchester United have been forced to change their traditional kit before the Europa League final. The Red Devils take on Premier League rivals Spurs in Bilbao on Wednesday evening.

The match gives Ruben Amorim and Ange Postecoglou the chance to claim silverware at the end of difficult seasons, while the victor will also claim a spot in next season’s Champions League. Each side have already arrived in Spain ahead of Wednesday evening’s game.

But United will have a slightly unfamiliar look when they take to the pitch at San Mames. It has been announced that Amorim’s side will wear black shorts - as opposed to their traditional white - alongside their famous red shirts and black socks.

That is down to Spurs’ 64-year long European tradition. The North London side have worn all white in Europe since 1961, a tradition adopted by former boss Bill Nicholson.

And with Spurs being dubbed as the ‘home’ team for the game, their kit choice takes precedence over United’s. The reason behind Spurs’ all-white kit tradition began over six decades ago, with Nicholson attempting to increase visibility for his players in stadiums not having the best lighting facilities.

It began in an away game to Polish side Gornik. “We just turned up in the dressing room for the game and there was the all-white kit,” former Spurs star Cliff Jones said. “No-one said anything; nothing was said to us. We just focused on the game coming up.”

Ricky George, a young apprentice at the time, added: “The all-white kit was for visibility. It was Bill Nick’s way of looking for those marginal gains. Those nights at White Hart Lane, under the lights, were just very special.”

“We loved playing in all-white,” Jones said. “I honestly cannot say for certain it made any difference in making us see each other better under the floodlights, but we did love playing in it. European nights we felt fresher, the air was different.”

Who will win the Europa League? Share your predictions in the comments below

The Europa League final is not the first time that United have opted for a slight kit change during the season. They also wore black shorts during their away trip to Real Sociedad back in March - a game that ended 1-1 after goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Mikel Oyarzabal.

They however returned to their more traditional white shorts during the home leg at Old Trafford - a match the Red Devils won 4-1 thanks to a hat-trick from Bruno Fernandes. Regardless of the kit they wear, United will be desperate to win the final and with it, seal their return to the Champions League.

Manchester United and Tottenham come into the Europa League final with poor defensive records and Teddy Sheringham thinks that will spell plenty of goals at both ends

Teddy Sheringham is expecting it to rain goals in Bilbao because he has no faith in the defences of Manchester United or Tottenham. The under-performing Premier League sides meet in the Europa League final on Wednesday night for a showdown with huge stakes.

With United 16th in the Premier League and on an eight-game winless run domestically and Spurs 17th and without a win in six in the league, it is a final of two out-of-form teams. But while they have disappointed in the league, both have made it to the final of Europe’s second-tier competition and are eyeing silverware.

The fact the winner will earn a place in next season’s Champions League has heightened the tension, while Tottenham have the added pressure of going for a first trophy since 2008. Picking a winner from two teams who have lacked consistency and confidence all season is difficult and Sheringham is only sure of one thing.

“I could see there being a lot of goals in the game, because neither team can defend, and neither of them want to play defensively. I see a very high-scoring, open game. I’m going to predict a 4-3 win, but I don’t know which team will edge it,” the former United and Spurs striker told Prime Casino.

“I think either way, it’s going to be goals galore and it will be end-to-end stuff. If I was looking at this from Man United's point of view, then I would be looking at the weaknesses in the Tottenham defence, but as I said, United’s back four is hardly a tight ship.

“Whoever can be more solid at the back will have an advantage and it might come down to which team makes fewer mistakes, because both sides have got a rick in them.

“If it goes to penalties. I think the pressure will be massively on Manchester United. A shootout could really affect them mentally, with all the implications of the result.”

HAVE YOUR SAY! Do you agree with Teddy Sheringham? Share your prediction in the comments section.

Pressure will be one of the key factors, with both managers feeling the heat at the end of largely miserable campaigns. Ruben Amorim has underwhelmed since taking the reins from Erik ten Hag in November, while Ange Postecoglou has become increasingly embattled in recent months.

The Spurs boss made headlines in the build-up by taking issue with a reporter’s characterisation of him as a ‘clown’. “I'll tell you one thing, irrespective of tomorrow, I'm not a clown and never will be,” he said in his press conference.

"You really disappointed me that you used such terminology to describe a person that for 26 years, without any favours from anyone, has worked his way to a position where he is leading out a club in a European final. For you to suggest that somehow us not being successful means that I'm a clown, I'm not sure how to answer that question."

Brawls broke out in the Basque country ahead of Wednesday night's Europa League Final between Tottenham and Manchester United fans

The Basque regional police force confirmed this morning it made no arrests yesterday despite incidents involving Manchester United and Tottenham fans. An ugly brawl erupted between the two sets of supporters in San Sebastian ahead of tonight’s Europa League final in nearby Bilbao.

They were filmed squaring up to each other before hurling missiles including glasses and wheelie bins in a spat that started just before 9.30pm in San Sebastian’s Old Town. Several fans are said to have been identified by the Ertzaintza, the Basque Country’s police force.

But a spokesman for the force confirmed this morning no arrests had been made in either San Sebastian or Bilbao, where boisterous Spurs fans were seen destroying two traffic lights yesterday afternoon.

He said: “In relation to the incidents arising out of the celebration of the Europa League final we have no information on any serious occurrences. No-one has been seriously injured and there have been no arrests so far.

“It’s true there was a fight in San Sebastian’s Old Town which started for reasons that are still being investigated and which involved the throwing of missiles by two rival groups. But that incident didn’t lead to any arrests.”

Bilbao City Hall, which employs officers who belong to a municipal police force which is a separate force to the Ertzaintza and is also responsible for policing the Europa League event, was unable to say early this morning whether its agents had made any arrests.

As well as last night’s incidents in San Sebastian, an ugly fight took place yesterday between two groups of supporters at a bar in the port city of Santander an hour’s drive west of Bilbao.

Footage of the punch-up at the Siboney Cafe showed a group of young Manchester United supporters goading two Spurs fans believed to be a father and son. One stuck his middle finger up at the pair as he walked by them, leading to a brief orgy of violence which took a turn for the worse when a second older man thought to be related to one of the youngsters who had been goading the Spurs supporters got involved.

The same group of United fans were also blamed for another fight shortly afterwards in a nearby bar called Tribeca.

A spokesman for the National Police in Cantabria, which covers Santander, confirmed today: “We responded to the incident at Siboney Cafe but when officers reached the scene there was nothing and none of those involved in the fight were present.

“We haven’t received any formal complaint from anyone and we’re not aware anyone was seriously injured in the incident.

“Last night was very quiet in Santander with no arrests linked to disturbances arising out of the Europa League celebrations to report.”

Manchester United and Tottenham will meet in the Europa League final on Wednesday night but rival sets of supporters clashed in ugly scenes less than 24 hours beforehand

Footage of a brawl between fans in Spain ahead of the Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham on Wednesday night has gone viral on social media.

The two Premier League sides will have a shot at salvaging their sorry domestic seasons when they collide at the home of Athletic Bilbao. A place in next season's Champions League is also at stake and tens of thousands of fans representing both clubs have made the trip to Spain for the big match.

But while there has been plenty of good natured interaction in Bilbao, shocking scenes of a brawl which saw fans launch punches and objects at each other in nearby San Sebastian has now surfaced.

The scrap, on the eve of the final, was shared across X. According to The Sun, authorities were alerted to a disturbance at around 9.20pm after violent behaviour was witnessed on Fermín Calbetón Street.

Witnesses claim tempers flared after two rival sets of supporters started hurling insults at each other. Drama then ensued with fans then throwing punches and objects at each other, including a wheelie bin and drinks. One even turned over a table to try and use as a weapon before order was restored by the authorities.

The report adds that no arrests were made, although officers remained in the area. An ambulance was also said to be present with 'several people' treated at the scene, though nobody was taken to hospital.

Tens of thousands of Brits have travelled to Spain to support them teams in the face of astronomical flight fares and a dearth of available accommodation in the Basque region.

The vast majority have been well behaved with no real disturbances prior to the incident in San Sebastian. It's estimated that thousands of fans have travelled without tickets for both team's penultimate match of the season.

Fans of both Manchester United and Spurs have watched their respective sides endure nightmare campaigns in the Premier League, where they sit 16th and 17th respectively in the table having lost a combined 39 matches in total.

The winner of Wednesday night's match could become the lowest-ranked team to ever win a European trophy, with West Ham - who finished 14th the year they clinched the Europa Conference League - holding that record currently.

EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL: Tottenham and Manchester United head to Bilbao for a match which won't just define their seasons but also have ripple effects for next term

It all comes down to this. Dire seasons in the Premier League will be forgotten on Wednesday as Tottenham and Manchester United do battle in Bilbao.

The clubs are 17th and 16th in the table respectively back home - yes, the first two places above the relegation zone - but it's been a different story on the continent. Injury-hit Spurs have got themselves to a second European final in six years, a game that could decide Ange Postecoglou's future.

Some would argue that the same goes for United. Ruben Amorim has gone through the opposite of a new manager bounce since being appointed in November and if the Red Devils can't bank the £100million that comes with winning the trophy - thanks to it including a ticket to the Champions League - his ambition of rebuilding United in his own image could become an impossible task.

Will Postecoglou deliver on his vow of always winning a trophy in his second season? Or will Amorim and his players continue to work their magic in Europe?

We asked the Mirror Football team for their predictions.

John Cross

The clash of the flops. We have to go all the way to Bilbao to watch two bang average teams thrash it out in the Europa League final. But let's be clear - the rules were there in the first place and the carrot of the Champions League is a huge incentive.

I've a feeling for Tottenham. What a crazy season for Ange Postecoglou. Spurs have suffered 21 defeats in the Premier League and yet I still think they look a better team with their better XI out than the rabble that is Manchester United at the moment.

What is Ruben Amorim doing? If you do not have players to play a system - don't play it! That will hurt them. Spurs are clearly missing players, can't field that strong XI but I think they will have just enough.

I would love to say it will be a thriller. But more like a comedy of errors. Neither are very good up front. But they are worse in defence. Tottenham to win an entertaining game.

Tottenham 3-2 Man Utd

Andy Dunn

The demeanour of this Ruben Amorim side in Europe this season - compared to the dismal domestic vibes it gives off - has been little short of remarkable. While this is a second-tier competition, Manchester United have disposed of some decent teams along the way and it could be argued their road to the final has been a little more challenging than the one negotiated by Ange Postecoglo's side.

And while Spurs have beaten United three times this season, Amorim's men have approached this competition with a positivity that has been painfully absent in the Premier League. Spurs will certainly feel they can get at their opposition but, in the semi-final against Athletic Bilbao, United showed they can be well-organised.

I don't see many goals in the contest but fancy Harry Maguire to seal an unlikely trophy for United from a set-piece.

Tottenham 0-1 Man Utd

Who'll win the Europa League final - Tottenham or Man Utd? Give us your score prediction in the comments section.

Mike Walters

Spurs have won all three meetings between the sides this season, so it stands to reason that they'll make it four in a row... right? Er, no. When you can't defend for toffee - and neither of these teams can defend a fish supper - logic doesn't come into it.

What is most distasteful about a major European final between the two worst teams in the Premier League is the scent of money. The winners will get their snouts in the Champions League trough next season, and they won't really deserve it.

With James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, their two most creative players, on parade I would have given Spurs the edge. But their absence gives United to burgle a trophy from a season of unrelenting misery on the home front and, in fairness, they have managed to stay unbeaten in 14 games in Europe this season.

With absolutely no confidence, and with all the science of pinning the tail on a donkey blindfolded like that party game, I'm going for United to win the donkey derby.

Tottenham 1-2 Man Utd

David McDonnell

A Europa League final between the sides in 16th and 17th place in the Premier League is unlikely to be one to savour - but it is all about the result for Manchester United and Tottenham. How you play in a final is irrelevant.

All that matters for United and Spurs is getting their hands on the trophy - and with it a £100million ticket to the Champions League. United have players back from injury at the right time, in particular Amad and Mason Mount, both of whom have impressed since returning, giving Ruben Amorim more attacking options, as well as Luke Shaw, who brings experience to United's back three.

In contrast, Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou is missing key men James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, which is a major blow given the inspiration and influence both can provide. Against that backdrop, I expect United to edge the final, but with so much at stake for both teams in the all-or-nothing showdown, it is likely to be a tense, edgy encounter.

Tottenham 1-2 Man Utd

Neil McLeman

The Carabao Cup quarter-final between these two poor sides in December was like their seasons - full of errors and goals and entertainment for the neutral. And this Europa League final could be the same, although I take Ruben Amorin's side to come out on the right side of a seven-goal thriller this time.

There is no point either of these two teams trying to sit on any lead - they are just not good enough. It could be like a basketball match. Dejan Kulusevski was the Man of the Match at the Tottenham Stadium in that cup game and he will be badly missed by Spurs.

Bruno Fernandes should be the best player on the pitch and make the difference. And so Ange Postecoglou won't always win a trophy in his second season.

Tottenham 3-4 Man Utd

Jeremy Cross

The game labelled 'El Crapico' could come down to which team doesn't perform the worst. These two sides have so much at stake and it promises to be such a high-octane affair.

But while Spurs have beaten United three times already this season, it's hard to believe they can make it a fourth. And it cannot be overlooked that, considering what United have overcome to reach this final, it feels like their name is written on the trophy.

Spurs might have the better players, but United appear to have fate in their team.

Tottenham 2-3 Man Utd

Tom Victor

The last time Spurs took on English opponents in a European final, it didn't go to plan. Injury issues dominated the lead-up to the game, they fell behind early on and struggled to assert themselves in an eventual 2-0 defeat against Liverpool.

This year, injury issues have dominated the lead-up to the game, with Dejan Kulusevski in particular a big loss. If Manchester United take an early lead, we could have a painful example of history repeating itself.

Optimists in north London will no-doubt point to Spurs getting the better of United on their previous meetings this season. However, what would be more tragicomic (I won't say 'Spursy') than winning three out of four but losing the one that matters.

If Ange Postecoglou's team want to win this game, their best bet may be repeating the chaos of the Carabao Cup meeting back in December. However, their opponents appear to be peaking at the perfect time in Europe and may well squeak to victory.

Tottenham 0-2 Man Utd

Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United meet in the Europa League final this Wednesday, and here's everything you need to know about the intriguing clash in Bilbao

The Europa League final is set to be contested between Tottenham and Manchester United in an all-Premier League tie. Both sides have fallen well below expectations in the league, but have the opportunity to end the season with silverware and a place in the Champions League.

Earlier this season, Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou stated he always delivers a trophy in his second season as a manager, and is one game away from fulfilling that promise at Tottenham. The club's last trophy came in the 2008 League Cup, and winning the Europa League would represent their first European triumph since 1984.

As for United, manager Ruben Amorim has similarly struggled in the league since replacing Erik ten Hag, with his side a point above Spurs in 16th. However, victory over Spurs would secure United's place in next year's Champions League and ensure the club earns silverware for the third consecutive year. Here's everything you need to know about how to watch Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester United in the Europa League final.

Kick-off time

The Europa League final between Spurs and United will take place on Wednesday, May 21. Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm. The game will be held at the San Mames Stadium in Bilbao. It is a venue that United know well, having earned a 3-0 win at the same ground in the first leg of their semi-final tie with Athletic Bilbao.

TV Channel

The Europa League final will be available to watch live on TNT Sports. The action will be broadcast on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate in the UK.

Live stream

The game will be available to live stream on the Discovery+ app, which is the platform that carries TNT Sports. Discovery+ is available to watch on smartphones, laptops, tablets, and smart TVs.

For fans without a Discovery+ subscription, new customers will also be able to watch the Europa League final for free by downloading and registering their details on the discovery+ app. However, TNT Sports will not be streaming the final live on YouTube, which the broadcaster had done in previous years.

TV slot

TNT Sports will dedicate significant airtime to the Europa League final. The build-up to the game between Spurs and United will begin at 6pm, two hours before kick-off.

A pivotal match for both clubs, TNT Sports’ post-match coverage is scheduled to last until 11pm. This will also allow for the potential outcome of extra time and a penalty shootout. In that scenario, the TV slot may be extended beyond 11pm to cover the celebrations and speak to those involved in the final.

Team news

The Europa League’s specific squad rules mean that Spurs quartet Radu Dragusin, Timo Werner, Fraser Forster and Antonin Kinsky were never going to be involved in the final as they were left out of the club’s squad for the knockout rounds. However, Tottenham manager Postecoglou has other issues to contend with.

James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski have both suffered injuries in recent weeks, with the latter already undergoing surgery. Young midfielder Lucas Bergvall is another notable absentee who is not expected to be involved in Bilbao, despite making progress in his recovery.

Spurs were given a fresh injury worry in their defeat to Aston Villa last Friday, as Pape Matar Sarr suffered a knock that makes him a doubt for the final. Elsewhere, Dane Scarlett will not be part of Postecoglou’s plans as he is also recovering from surgery.

For United, defender Lisandro Martinez and forward Joshua Zirkzee have been dealt season-ending ACL and hamstring injuries, respectively. The majority of the club’s other fitness doubts concern their backline.

Matthijs de Ligt returned against Brentford earlier this month, but has not featured again since being substituted at half-time with a knee injury. Fellow centre-back Leny Yoro recently recovered from a broken foot, but seemed to aggravate the same area in United’s defeat to West Ham. Meanwhile, Diogo Dalot is making strides in his recovery, but Amorim is unlikely to risk playing the full-back.

Celebrations

Both clubs may have endured similarly frustrating seasons outside of European competition, but they plan to celebrate a possible Europa League triumph in distinctly different ways. It has been reported that United will not have an open-top bus parade if they are victorious, but instead will host a barbecue for players and staff.

This is due to United having little time to celebrate the possible silverware, as the club end their Premier League season at home to Aston Villa on Sunday, May 25, shortly before a post-season tour in Kuala Lumpur. United’s last open-top bus parade was for winning the 2013 Premier League title. There was no public celebration when the club won the Europa League under Jose Mourinho in 2017.

Meanwhile, Spurs are expected to have a parade if the club can end their 17-year wait for a trophy. The club have finished runners-up in four cup finals, including the 2019 Champions League, since last lifting a trophy.

Odds

Spurs are viewed as slight favourites (2/1) to win the game in normal time over United (6/4), as per Oddschecker. The draw is priced at 12/5, which would lead to extra time and a possible penalty shootout. In terms of an outright winner, United hold a slight edge at 4/5 while Spurs are priced at evens.

Manchester United and Tottenham come together in Bilbao on Wednesday evening in the Europa League final with both Rubem Amorim and Ange Postecoglou facing tricky decisions

Manchester United and Tottenham’s seasons boil down to just one game on Wednesday evening. The two Premier League rivals come face-to-face in the Europa League final in Bilbao.

The winner will of course claim the much-desired silverware but also a crucial spot back in the Champions League. And given the rotten seasons that each have endured in the Premier League - United and Spurs sitting 16th and 17th respectively - that is even more important.

It would make the teams that both Ruben Amorim and Ange Postecoglou pick to take to the pitch at San Mames even more crucial. So with a number of tricky decisions ahead of them, Mirror Football has attempted to predict what each of the managers will do:

Tottenham

Starting with Spurs, Italian goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario looks sure to start in goal, while Pedro Porro is surely going to be the starting right-back given he was part of the North London side’s pre-match press conference.

After starting Ben Davies and Kevin Danso in the recent defeat to Aston Villa, both Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven also look likely to return this weekend. Destiny Udogie has faced competition from Djed Spence this season but the former appears to have done enough to secure a starting spot.

Moving into midfield, Postecoglou has seen his options limited by injury. Lucas Bergvall and James Maddison will not play a part.

That should see a partnership of Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur in midfield. Pape Matar Sarr was also a slight doubt but Postecoglou has confirmed that he is ready to return.

Who will win the Europa League? Share your predictions in the comments below

Spurs’ attack also looks set to be dictated by injuries. Dejan Kulusevski and Timo Werner are both ruled out which means Spurs’ Europa League hero so far Brennan Johnson should start.

Dominic Solanke should regain his starting position from loanee Mathys Tel. Meanwhile, captain Son Heung-min will surely start.

Spurs predicted XI: (4-2-3-1) Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bissouma, Sarr; Johnson, Bentancur, Son; Solanke

Man Utd

When it comes to the United team, Amorim also sees his options limited by injury. Andre Onana is one of those who is fit and being United’s number one option, is sure to start between the sticks.

Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt are both missing so Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire should also be named on the teamsheet. Noussair Mazraoui should potentially round off the back three.

Moving to wing-back, Diogo Dalot should start ahead of Luke Shaw, with Patrick Dorgu stationed the other side. There’s then a tricky decision to make over midfield.

Mason Mount has shown some excellent form over recent weeks so could be considered but Casemiro’s experience might see him move to the front of the queue. He will likely partner Manuel Ugarte - the former PSG star having emerged as a key player over recent months.

Looking at attack, Bruno Fernandes will likely be the first name on the teamsheet after his starring performances this term. There is then a decision over who will support him.

Joshua Zirkzee has recovered even quicker than expected so could be an option but Amad should really be stationed behind their solitary number nine. Despite a tricky season, Rasmus Hojlund will surely be that man.

Man Utd (3-4-2-1): Onana; Yoro, Maguire, Mazraoui; Dalot, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu; Amad, Fernandes; Hojlund

Tottenham have travelled to Bilbao for their huge Europa League final against Manchester United on Wednesday night, with the club desperate to end their 17-year wait for silverware

Tottenham legend Jurgen Klinsmann believes the Europa League Final could be the game that makes or breaks Ange Postecoglou. Spurs face Manchester United in Bilbao on Wednesday night with a place in next season’s Champions League up for grabs.

Both Postecoglou and Reds’ boss Ruben Amorim will finish the Premier League campaign in the lower reaches of the table after suffering defeats at Aston Villa and Chelsea respectively on Friday night.

And Klinsmann said: “It’s such an interesting game because both clubs have been so disappointing in the Premier League this season. Of course it is an important moment for both clubs because there is a place in the Champions League for the winners.

"But it is also a huge game for both managers - and especially Ange. I think Amorim will be given more time to establish his own team at United, but for Postecoglou it is clear that he is in a completely different position at the end of his second year.

"If he wins the Europa League then I hope it will buy him more time to get things right because I know that Spurs is such a fantastic club.

“There is so much on the line in this final and because the teams have been so inconsistent, it’s impossible to predict what would happen.”

Klinsmann became a Premier League pioneer in the one season he spent at White Hart Lane before blazing the trail that would eventually be followed by Harry Kane by joining Bayern Munich in 1995.

Like Kane, he left to win trophies - and both men have a Bundesliga title medal after Bayern clinched the title last weekend. Tottenham have won just two League Cups in the 30 years since the German World Cup star was in London.

And Klinsmann said: "This is such a massive opportunity for Spurs. First of all then can end that long wait for a trophy - and that would open the door for the Champions League. There is also the added factor that they can win a trophy during a season when Arsenal haven’t won anything.

"Look, Arsenal are a much better team than Spurs. But football is about those moments when you see your team win something, so this is a huge deal in North London."

Spurs are currently 17th in the Premier League table after 21 defeats and they come into the final following a run of five defeats in their last six Premier League games.

Manchester United, meanwhile have won just once in their last eight league games, losing six of those ahead of their trip to Bilbao.