Manchester United’s players will receive only two complimentary tickets each for the upcoming Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur, which is scheduled to take place on 21 May at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao. While members of the squad are permitted to buy up to ten extra tickets, they must also manage the logistics of bringing their friends and family to and from northern Spain.
The club has emphasized its aim to make the majority of its 15,000-ticket allocation available to its fanbase. In line with this approach, staff will not be given free tickets as in previous years. Instead, they have been invited to attend a viewing event in Manchester on the day of the match.
These adjustments come during a period of financial tightening at United. Recent steps have included staff layoffs and the discontinuation of complimentary meals for employees at the training ground.
Celebration plans and scheduling challenges
Should Manchester United lift the trophy in Bilbao, the club’s plan is to hold a private gathering at the Carrington training base, where a barbeque would be hosted for the squad and staff. This would mark a low-key end to the campaign, contrasting with potential celebrations being discussed by their opponents.
Tottenham Hotspur have not yet confirmed their response in the event of a win, but it is expected they would mark the occasion with a public event. Other clubs have followed similar paths recently: Newcastle held a parade in March following their Carabao Cup victory, and Liverpool have confirmed a citywide celebration for 26 May in recognition of their Premier League title.
Manchester United have not organised a parade since 2013, when Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down as manager. In 2008, players were reportedly unhappy that no parade was held after their Champions League victory in Moscow. Planning such a celebration this season would have presented logistical hurdles.
Tight calendar limits post-match opportunities
After the final in Spain, United still have one domestic fixture remaining. They host Aston Villa at Old Trafford on 25 May, just four days after facing Spurs. Following the end of their Premier League campaign, the team is set to fly to Asia for friendly games in Malaysia and Hong Kong.
The squad will return to England on 31 May, with several players due to immediately join their national teams. Portugal face Germany in the Nations League semi-final on 4 June, involving key figures such as Bruno Fernandes and potentially Diogo Dalot. In addition, World Cup qualification matches will take place in South America on 5 June and across Europe starting on 6 June.
