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Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur: Key Selection Decisions Ahead of UEFA Europa League Final

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are set for a seismic showdown in Bilbao, with the UEFA Europa League trophy on the line. For Ruben Amorim, this isn’t just a final, it’s a test of trust — in form, in fitness and in his own instincts.

Fresh injury returns have made Amorim’s task both easier and harder. The return of several important names provides depth, but it also forces crucial decisions in a match where margins are slim and the stakes immeasurable.

Amorim’s Dilemma in Defence

The big story this week has been the unexpected return of Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro and Diogo Dalot to first-team training. While it’s unlikely all three will start, their inclusion in the travelling squad signals just how close they are to full recovery.

Yoro, in particular, presents a selection conundrum. At just 19, he’s shown composure beyond his years and was central to United’s semi-final progress. Yet his foot injury kept him out of the final league game against Chelsea. If fit, he would slot into Amorim’s favoured back-three alongside Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelöf. Luke Shaw remains a solid alternative but lacks Yoro’s aerial presence.

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Diogo Dalot’s situation is more straightforward. Out for six matches with an ankle injury, it’s too soon for him to start. That leaves the right wing-back slot in contention between Noussair Mazraoui and Amad Diallo. Diallo, though typically more attack-minded, has impressed when filling in deeper. His energy and directness could be vital in exploiting space down the flank against Spurs.

Mazraoui is the more experienced option and can play on either side. However, Patrick Dorgu’s form on the left has likely locked that position, leaving Mazraoui’s best chance of involvement on the bench.

Midfield Engine Room Firmly Set

In midfield, Amorim has consistently favoured the steel and balance of Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro. The Brazilian, rested early against Chelsea, will be central to United’s efforts to disrupt Tottenham’s rhythm.

Bruno Fernandes, as ever, will orchestrate in the final third, taking one of the two attacking midfield roles. The question remains: who partners him?

Mount vs Garnacho: Two Styles, One Spot

Alejandro Garnacho has been a consistent presence in United’s run to the final. The Argentine winger started every knockout match but was benched for the last two Premier League games. Amorim appears to be managing his minutes carefully.

Mason Mount, on the other hand, is peaking at the right time. He’s started United’s last three matches and replaced Garnacho in the second leg of the semi-final. Amorim must now decide whether to go with Mount’s work rate and vision or Garnacho’s directness and flair. “The ex-Chelsea playmaker replaced Garnacho in the semi-final second leg,” the report reminds us, which could hint at Amorim’s current thinking.

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Either way, the one not picked could be crucial off the bench, especially if the final goes deep into extra time.

Rasmus Højlund to Lead the Line

Despite Zirkzee’s surprise return, it’s difficult to see past Rasmus Højlund as United’s starting striker. He’s been the focal point for much of the campaign, and match rhythm is likely to trump late fitness in Amorim’s mind. Zirkzee’s inclusion on the bench does offer a useful wildcard should the game demand a change in tempo or shape.

Predicted Manchester United XI (3-4-2-1): Onana; Lindelöf, Maguire, Yoro; Amad, Ugarte, Casemiro, Dorgu; Fernandes, Mount; Højlund.

Injured: Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de LigtKick-off: 8pm BST, Wednesday 21 May 2025Venue: San Mamés Stadium, BilbaoTV Coverage: TNT Sports, Discovery+

As Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur prepare for their date with destiny, squad depth and tactical flexibility could prove decisive. Amorim has the tools at his disposal. Now, it’s about making the right call at the right moment.