Ivan Rakitic Backs Manchester United as Slight Favourites in Europa League Final Against Tottenham

Bilbao, Spain – Top Knowledge Media | Sports Desk

As anticipation builds for the 2025 UEFA Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Bilbao's San Mamés Stadium, former Barcelona and Sevilla star Ivan Rakitic has weighed in, tipping Manchester United as slight favourites to clinch the title.Pulse Sports Nigeria+1Wikipedia+1

In an interview with Pulse Sports Nigeria, Rakitic, a two-time Europa League winner, described the final as a "last chance" for both Premier League clubs to salvage their underwhelming domestic seasons. He emphasized the significance of the match, likening it to a Champions League final in terms of intensity and stakes. Pulse Sports Nigeria

"I think Manchester United are slight favourites," Rakitic stated, highlighting United's European pedigree and the experience of players like Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro as potential decisive factors. 

Manchester United's journey to the final has been marked by an unbeaten run in the Europa League this season, including a commanding 7–1 aggregate victory over Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals. Despite finishing 16th in the Premier League, United's European form has been a beacon in an otherwise challenging season.

Tottenham Hotspur, finishing 17th domestically, have also viewed the Europa League as a vital opportunity for redemption. Under manager Ange Postecoglou, Spurs have been unbeaten in their last six encounters with United, a psychological advantage they hope to leverage. 

The final not only offers silverware but also a coveted spot in next season's Champions League, adding further weight to an already high-stakes encounter.

As the football world turns its eyes to Bilbao, Rakitic's insights add to the narrative of a closely contested final where experience, form, and psychological edges will play pivotal roles in determining the victor.