Watch the Europa League final live between Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen as the Germans aim to achieve an undefeated treble.

HELLO AND WELCOME

Oh, I must say I am absolutely thrilled for this match. The incredible leadership of Xabi Alonso has transformed Neverkusen into Leverkusen, Germany’s perennial nearly-team, and they are now on the verge of a truly remarkable season. They have dominated the Bundesliga, preventing Bayern from winning their 12th consecutive title. They have reached the Cup final against Kaiserslautern, who play in the 2. Bundesliga. And tonight, they face the fifth-best team in Italy, with their sights set on their first European trophy and an unbeaten treble. The taste of history is within their grasp.

However, they should not underestimate Atalanta. They are a formidable team, full of creativity, innovation, and physicality. They will not be intimidated by Leverkusen’s reputation. Gian Piero Gasperini will have a well-thought-out plan, and his players will execute it with determination and passion. Atalanta, also, are on the brink of achieving something extraordinary. In their 116-year history, they have only won one major trophy, the 1962 Coppa Italia. Unlike Leverkusen, whose manager and star players may soon move to wealthier clubs, Atalanta’s manager and players are fully aware that this may be their only chance at such glory.

In other words, I cannot predict the exact outcome of this match, but I can guarantee that it will be a significant moment in football. Here we go!

Kick-off: 8pm BST