Ange Postecoglou Fires Back at Critics Ahead of Europa League Final

Ange Postecoglou's response to criticism ahead of Tottenham's Europa League final against Manchester United. Will Spurs' manager lead his team to trophy success despite a tough Premier League season?

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou fired back at critics ahead of the Europa League final against Manchester United, defending his managerial record after a tumultuous Premier League season. With Spurs chasing their first trophy in 17 years, Postecoglou expressed frustration, saying, “I'm not a clown, mate,” emphasizing his determination to prove his worth on the biggest stage.

The Europa League final presents a massive opportunity for Postecoglou's side to silence critics and secure a Champions League spot for next season. Despite a disappointing league campaign, Spurs' European form has shown promise, and a win would mark a significant achievement for the team.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou faces increasing scrutiny as his team's Premier League performance has plummeted, leaving them 17th in the table. With pressure mounting ahead of the Europa League final against Manchester United, Postecoglou's job security hangs in the balance. Many believe his future at the club is uncertain, regardless of the outcome in Bilbao.

Despite the stakes, Postecoglou remains determined to lead his team to success in the Europa League. A win would not only bring a trophy but also secure a Champions League spot, potentially altering the narrative of his tenure. However, the challenge against Manchester United is immense, and Postecoglou's response to criticism will be closely watched.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou addressed the media ahead of the Europa League final, responding to criticism about his job security. When asked if he was aware of walking a fine line between infamy and history, Postecoglou firmly defended his managerial record. ”That depends on your outlook, but I'll tell you one thing - irrespective of tomorrow, I'm not a clown, I never will be, mate,” he said, directly targeting a reporter who had used the term in their writing.

Postecoglou's comments reflected his frustration with the narrative surrounding his tenure. Despite the pressure, he remains focused on the task at hand, determined to lead Tottenham to success in the Europa League final against Manchester United.

“It's really disappointing that you use such terminology about a person who for 26 years, without any favours from anyone, who's worked his way to being in a position where he's leading out a club in a European major competition, for you to suggest that somehow us not being successful means that I'm a clown.”

Ange Postecoglou emphasized his dedication to transforming Tottenham, highlighting the significant challenges he's faced. Since taking the helm, he's worked to build a team capable of competing for trophies while rejuvenating the squad and implementing a new playing style.

“I've tried as hard as I can to stick to that process in getting the club to a position where they can challenge for trophies and at the same time, rejuvenate the squad and change the playing style,” Postecoglou said, underscoring his commitment to progress despite the team's struggles.

“It has been a fair assignment with plenty of challenges along the way.

“With such a big game tomorrow, there is an opportunity to fulfil at least the main task I was given, which was to bring trophies to the club.”

Your Spurs team for the final 🫡 pic.twitter.com/xdlMEZzoOO

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 21, 2025

Ange Postecoglou revealed that he hasn't discussed his future with his players, believing it wouldn't be beneficial. Instead, he's focused on the task at hand, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities.

“I've said to the lads from day one, nothing is guaranteed in life, nothing is guaranteed in sport. You've just got to try and make sure you take every opportunity before you, and that's what I've done my whole career,” Postecoglou said. He added, “I've been in this position before, where the big game was the last game I managed. It's not unusual territory for me,” showcasing his experience and calmness under pressure.

He added: “My future is assured. I wouldn't be the first person who changes jobs. We all change jobs. I'm sure you've had more than one job. My future is assured. I've got a beautiful family, I've got a great life.

Arrived for the final 👋 pic.twitter.com/snt8qAFm8f

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 21, 2025

“I'll keep on winning trophies until I finish, wherever that is. Don't worry about my future, mate.”

Ange Postecoglou remains focused on his role at Tottenham, believing there's still work to be done. Despite the pressure, he's optimistic about the team's progress, highlighting the potential impact of a trophy.

“I really feel like we're building something, and what a trophy does is hopefully accelerates that,” Postecoglou said, expressing his vision for the team's future and the significance of success in the Europa League final.

“So I still think there's a lot of work to be done. That's quite obvious with the challenges we've had this year, but also there's been some growth that I'd like to see through.”

Injury Update: Key Players Out for Tottenham

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou confirmed that Lucas Bergvall will not be fit to face Manchester United in the Europa League final. Additionally, James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski are also ruled out. However, Pape Matar Sarr is available for selection after recovering from his recent injury.