Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has responded sharply to Arsene Wenger’s suggestion that Europa League winners should not earn a place in the next season’s Champions League. Speaking ahead of Spurs’ second-leg tie against Bodo/Glimt, the Australian coach questioned the timing and motive behind Wenger’s remarks.
Wenger, now working as FIFA’s head of global football development, had raised doubts about the current policy that allows Europa League champions to advance to the Champions League. He suggested that instead, winning the Europa League should only secure a spot in that same competition the following year.
Postecoglou found the debate curious and hinted that Spurs’ involvement may be influencing opinions. “Spurs does crazy things to people,” he said, implying that Tottenham often becomes the focal point of football debates. He added that this issue had not attracted attention before and wondered why it was being discussed now.
Competition rules under scrutiny
UEFA changed its qualification format in 2014, allowing Europa League winners to progress to the Champions League. That decision was made to increase the importance of Europe’s secondary tournament, a point Wenger also acknowledged, saying that the reward keeps clubs motivated.
However, he argued that this approach may no longer suit leagues like the Premier League, where five teams can already qualify for the Champions League. Wenger’s comments came during an interview with BeIN Sports and have sparked conversation among fans and pundits.
Postecoglou questioned why changes to qualification criteria are accepted in some cases but criticized in others. He pointed out that while finishing fifth in the Premier League last season didn’t guarantee Champions League qualification, it does this year – yet that didn’t cause the same level of debate.
Spurs eye Europa final despite injury concerns
Tottenham are on the brink of reaching the Europa League final, carrying a 3-1 advantage into Thursday’s match in Norway against Bodo/Glimt. The match will take place at Aspmyra Stadion.
They are currently 16th in the Premier League, with Manchester United just one spot above them in 15th. United also lead 3-0 in their semi-final tie against Athletic Club. The two winning sides will meet in the final in Bilbao on 21 May.
Tottenham will be without midfielder James Maddison, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury suffered in the first leg. Forward Dominic Solanke has made the trip and is expected to play, despite a minor quad issue in the previous game.
