Spurs Lift Trophy as United’s Lineup Choices Come Under Scrutiny After Toothless Display
Rio Ferdinand has openly criticized Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim for leaving Alejandro Garnacho on the bench in their 1-0 Europa League final loss to Tottenham, insisting the young winger could have made the difference in a game where United lacked attacking spark.
Spurs ended their 17-year trophy drought with a hard-fought victory in Bilbao, securing Champions League football next season, while United’s disappointing campaign ended without silverware. Amorim’s decision to start Mason Mount over Garnacho raised eyebrows—especially after the Argentine’s lively cameo nearly changed the game.
Mount Preferred—But Did It Backfire?
Amorim opted for Mount, who had impressed in the semi-final against Athletic Bilbao with a brace, but the English midfielder struggled to influence the final. Garnacho, United’s second-top scorer this season with 11 goals and 10 assists, was introduced after 70 minutes and immediately tested Spurs’ goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario with a fierce strike.
The 19-year-old’s direct running and pace stretched Tottenham’s defense—something United lacked for much of the match. Ferdinand, analyzing the game for TNT Sports, didn’t hold back in his assessment.
“That’s one thing I will question about the selection today,” said the former United defender. “Garnacho has done that all season—stretching teams, running in behind. You can talk about his end product, but he gives you that threat. Today, Spurs’ backline was never really tested until he came on.”
A Missed Opportunity for United?
While Mount has shown flashes of quality since his move from Chelsea, injuries have disrupted his season, and he failed to replicate his semi-final heroics when it mattered most. Garnacho, meanwhile, has been one of United’s few bright spots in a turbulent campaign, and his introduction nearly sparked a comeback.
With Bruno Fernandes the only United player to outscore Garnacho this season, Amorim’s reluctance to start him may linger as a key “what if?” in a match where United lacked cutting edge.
For Tottenham, the victory marks a historic moment. But for United, the inquest begins—and Amorim’s team selection will be one of the first talking points.
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