Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) declared an end to his trophy drought.
Tottenham faces Manchester United (hereafter referred to as Man U) in the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League final, scheduled for 4 a.m. on the 22nd (Korea time) in Bilbao, Spain. This is the last chance for both Man U and Tottenham, who are currently ranked 16th and 17th in the Premier League, to win a trophy.
If Tottenham wins, it will be their first title in 17 years. Son Heung-min finally secured a chance to win after finishing as a runner-up four times since joining Tottenham in 2015.
Tottenham captain Son Heung-min is expected to start in the Europa League final. After missing a month due to an ankle injury, Son returned to the field on the 11th against Crystal Palace in the Premier League's 36th round. Having been included in the substitute list, Son was brought on in the 58th minute, replacing Pedro Porro.
Son Heung-min explained his urgency for victory in an interview with "The Guardian." He said, "The reason I stayed with Tottenham is to achieve the trophy that other players could not. This is why I am here. I have all the pieces for the trophy. One crucial piece was missing. I have waited for this day for the last 10 years. Finally, I will be able to complete the puzzle."
Their opponent, Man U, is also desperate. Both Tottenham and Man U have had dismal performances this season. Man U is currently 16th in the league with 10 wins, 9 draws, and 17 losses, while Tottenham is 17th with 11 wins, 5 draws, and 20 losses. Both teams are at risk of securing their worst performances since the Premier League's inception. Missing out on the Europa League title would mean finishing without a trophy.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou will be sacked if he fails to win the Europa League. "Football Insider" noted, "Postecoglou’s future hinges on the result of the Europa League final. With Tottenham falling to 17th, his future remains uncertain. If he wins, he can maintain his position as manager at Tottenham. However, if they lose, he will be dismissed without mercy. Winning the Europa League is essentially a lifeline."
Son Heung-min said, "Every game is special and meaningful. The opportunity to face Man U will not come again. I really want to win. Many fans are supporting us with a desperate heart. If we prepare well, I believe we can win," as he clenched his fist.
Postecoglou expressed optimism about Son Heung-min’s starting situation, stating, "I know how much the trophy would mean for the club. Son Heung-min has had an incredible career. It’s the trophy that every player craves. He knows how important it is. It would be good if he can play. His condition is improving. If he trains well, he should be able to maintain his form."
Son Heung-min has repeatedly faced frustration on the brink of victory. He has been without a trophy not only with Tottenham but also with the national team. Can Son Heung-min finally get past Man U and lift the trophy?
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