Ruben Amorim is prepared for Tottenham Hotspur’s challenge against Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is gearing up for a crucial encounter against Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Europa League final, and he is well aware of what to expect from his opponents. With the two sides having clashed three times this season, Amorim has identified key areas that could determine the outcome of the match.

Tottenham have had the upper hand in their previous meetings, winning all three encounters, including two league matches by a resounding 4-0 aggregate scoreline and a thrilling 4-3 victory in the Carabao Cup. As they prepare to meet for a fourth time, the stakes are higher than ever, with the final set to take place on Wednesday, May 21, live on TNT Sports and discovery+. The winners will not only lift the coveted trophy but also secure a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

In an interview with TNT Sports, Amorim reflected on the challenge of facing such a familiar opponent. “One of the things that is good about facing Tottenham is they are really good, but you can understand what they are going to do, because they have such a strong identity they will not change,” he stated. He contrasted Spurs’ consistency with the tactical shifts seen during Jose Mourinho’s tenure at United, highlighting the predictability of Tottenham’s approach.

Amorim also addressed whether he would alter his team’s strategy for the final. “I always look at the opponent to see where the space is, but we have an identity,” he explained. “In that way, for me, it’s easier for our players to understand. But of course, if they defend with four or five, we change completely and play with wing-backs, for example. I think I am changing all the time.”

Both United and Tottenham have faced challenges in the Premier League this season, often saving their best performances for the Europa League. The question remains: can United turn the tables on Spurs after suffering three defeats already this campaign?

Amorim believes set pieces will play a crucial role in the final. “Set pieces are going to be a key point,” he remarked, acknowledging Tottenham’s strength in winning corners and capitalising on such opportunities.

Despite United’s struggles, with 17 league losses marking their worst season since 1973/74, Amorim remains optimistic about the club’s stature. “It’s easier for us in other countries to understand how big Manchester United is,” he said. “Sometimes people here forget about that, but when you come from abroad you understand this is Manchester United. No matter the context, you feel the history, and that’s why this club will always be a top club because of the past and everything around it.”