When Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United take to the pitch at San Mamés tonight, all eyes will be on a crucial battle down the wing: Spurs’ talisman Son Heung-min facing off against United’s assertive right-back Noussair Mazraoui. While the Europa League final brings together two English giants chasing redemption, the individual duel between Son and Mazraoui could prove decisive in shaping the outcome.
How They Got Here
Son’s return to form has been timely. The South Korean forward missed much of April due to a foot injury but made a triumphant return last week, scoring against Aston Villa and reassuring fans of his fitness ahead of this final. Now 32, Son remains Tottenham’s most lethal threat in transition and in the final third.
For Mazraoui, this season has been a rollercoaster. After joining United from Bayern Munich last summer, he has become one of the few consistent performers in what’s otherwise been a turbulent campaign for the Red Devils. Defensively solid and confident on the ball, the Moroccan full-back has grown in influence, especially in the Europa League knockout stages.
A Clash of Styles
Tottenham, under Ange Postecoglou, play with high energy and forward pressure. They are most dangerous when they can win the ball back quickly and spring into transition, a phase of play where Son thrives.
Manchester United, managed by Ruben Amorim, often look to bypass the press with quick switches of play and diagonal balls – a pattern that suits Mazraoui’s comfort on the ball and willingness to support attacks. But this openness can leave him exposed, especially if Tottenham’s wingers are allowed time and space.
Breaking Down the Duel
| Player | 2024/25 Season Stats | Key Strengths | Areas to Watch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Son Heung-min | 12 goals, 6 assists | Finishing, movement, late-game stamina | Returning from injury, could be isolated without strong midfield link-up |
| Noussair Mazraoui | High tackle/interception rate, 84% pass accuracy | 1v1 defending, build-up play, positional versatility | Susceptible to being caught high up the pitch |
Past Encounters and Motivation
Earlier this season, Tottenham convincingly beat Manchester United 3-0 at Old Trafford, exploiting gaps on the flanks — including Mazraoui’s channel. That loss has reportedly stuck with the Moroccan, who sees this final as a chance for redemption.
For Son, this final is about more than silverware. It represents the culmination of years of service to Spurs and perhaps his best chance at lifting a European trophy with the club.
Tactical Scenarios
- If Tottenham take the lead early, Son will look to pin Mazraoui back and exploit space behind the United defense.
- If United control the game, Mazraoui may be instructed to push higher and help build attacks, forcing Son into deeper defensive positions and creating space for United’s midfielders to operate.
Both managers will be mindful of how this duel evolves. It could influence substitution patterns, shape rotations, and dictate who controls the flanks.
The Stakes
For Tottenham, a Europa League win would mark their first European trophy in over four decades and secure Champions League football next season. It could also persuade Son to extend his stay in North London beyond 2026.
For Manchester United, the trophy would be a saving grace after a disappointing domestic season and a major boost for Amorim’s rebuilding efforts.
In the end, the game may come down to who wins the skirmish between Son and Mazraoui — a clash of pace, positioning, and purpose. In a final full of subplots, this one could define the night.