Is UEFA Europa League success enough to save Amorim and Postecoglou? | OneFootball

Manchester United and Spurs head to Bilbao on Wednesday for the Europa League final – but will European success be enough for Ruben Amorim or Ange Postecoglou to secure their futures?

As thousands of fans head to the Basque Country, many will be reflecting on a disappointing domestic campaign. United and Spurs sit 16th and 17th in the Premier League, respectively.

By all accounts, both clubs’ seasons have been poor. However, Amorim and Postecoglou remain in their jobs, hoping that Europa League success could still provide them with a pathway to Champions League football next season.

Spurs: Postecoglou’s project under pressure

Postecoglou would have expected much more from his team at the start of the season after such a promising opening spell. But since then, Tottenham’s collapse has been nothing short of disappointing.

Injuries, a rigid playing style, and the absence of key personnel have all contributed. Yet the Australian manager refused to adapt his system, even when crucial players like Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven were sidelined for extended periods.

Both defenders are vital to Postecoglou’s high-line, aggressive style of football. However, when you lose players so integral to your system, the onus is on the manager to adjust – something Postecoglou was reluctant to do, even as results slipped away.

That reluctance to adapt has created a growing divide within the fanbase, with some supporters now calling for the manager’s dismissal.

Reports suggest Tottenham could consider a change regardless of Wednesday night’s final result, a sign that faith in Postecoglou’s long-term vision may already be fading.

The club’s chairman, Daniel Levy, has a big decision to make as he looks ahead to next season. However, success in the Europa League could give Postecoglou more time, given the financial boost that Champions League football would bring to the North London side.

Bilbao could be a massive pivotal moment in Tottenham’s history as they look to end a 17-year wait for a trophy.

Manchester United: Amorim’s audition or exit plan?

Amorim became Manchester United’s manager in early November and, since then, has somewhat steadied the ship with a mix of inconsistent performances. While he has introduced a more disciplined defensive structure and given opportunities to younger players, the team has struggled to find consistency. Unlike Postecoglou, Amorim hasn’t had much time to stamp his authority or fully reshape the squad.

The Europa League final represents a crucial moment for United, one of England’s most successful clubs – behind only Liverpool in terms of trophies. Securing Champions League qualification through the final would bring significant financial rewards and improve their chances in the transfer market, attracting top talent and keeping current stars happy. Failure to qualify, on the other hand, could stall progress and deepen doubts about the club’s direction.

Many of the issues Amorim faces have been ongoing, with a squad full of players past their peak and in need of major overhaul. A significant summer clear-out appears inevitable if United are to compete again at the highest level. The club’s board is expected to back Amorim if he secures Champions League football, making Wednesday night a potential turning point.

The club’s longer-term vision is on the line, and the next couple of years are likely to be defined by the outcome of this final and the subsequent rebuilding process. Whether this marks the start of a new era or continued uncertainty remains to be seen.

What’s at stake in Bilbao?

The Europa League final presents a stark contrast: one team will celebrate a season capped by silverware and hope, while the other will confront the harsh reality of failure, no European football and a season to forget, with serious questions looming over their manager’s future.

Winning on Wednesday could reshape one club’s history, with Champions League football and the financial rewards that come with it waiting for the victor.

Losing could mean the end for either manager, though Postecoglou is considered more likely to lose his job. However, if Amorim doesn’t win on Wednesday, it could also lead to a difficult period for him at the Theatre of Dreams.

Ultimately, Wednesday night carries huge stakes for both teams, with different successes and challenges awaiting each side. We’re in for a spectacular final, where just 90 minutes will define the entire season.