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Bale: Tottenham “Deserve” Europa League Title

Bale: Tottenham "Deserve" Europa League Title

Gareth Bale and Rio Ferdinand will answer questions from fans in a TNT Sports Q&A ahead of the UEFA Europa League final. Former Spurs star Bale is backing his former club for glory in Bilbao, while Ferdinand expects the trophy to be taken back to Old Trafford as both clubs look to finish a disappointing season with unexpected success.

Former Tottenham star Gareth Bale is backing his former club to lift the UEFA Europa League trophy in Bilbao, saying they “deserve” to pick up their first piece of silverware in almost two decades.

Ange Postecoglou’s side take on Manchester United in the final at Estadio de San Mames, and you can watch the action live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

Ahead of Wednesday’s final, Bale and regular TNT Sports pundit Rio Ferdinand will be answering your questions on our live matchday blog from 17:00 UK time, so make sure you join us for that. The pair will then be part of the live coverage from 18:00.

Will the UEFA Europa League final have VAR, extra time and penalties?

It has been a difficult season domestically for both Tottenham and United, with the clubs occupying the two places above the relegation zone in the Premier League.

Although their top-flight status is guaranteed with one game of the season remaining, it has been a far from satisfactory campaign, and victory in Europe can provide a glimmer of success in what has been a gloomy period at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Old Trafford.

Asked who is more desperate for Europa League glory, Bale said: “I think Tottenham will definitely benefit more. It’s been a long period of time since we won. And yeah, I think we deserve it.”

Asked for his prediction, he added: “Tottenham will win the Europa League final. I think it’ll be a tight game, but I think 2-1 Tottenham.”

Ferdinand was not quite as confident in his response to the question, knowing the result will have major consequences for both clubs.

“I don’t think you can split who will benefit more. I think they’ve got different reasons for wanting to win.

“Obviously, Spurs haven’t won a trophy for many years, and for every fan that gets into an argument, their inability to win trophies is one of the first jabs that they get. So that’ll be a great monkey off their back.

“But for Man Utd, obviously the Champions League, the recruitment of players and what it could do for morale as well… after a terrible, shocking season, in terms of Premier League form, it could be a massive, massive boost.”

Asked for an outright prediction, Ferdinand said: “Man United will win 3-1. Bruno Fernandes will play a part in a couple of goals. Casimiro will be my bet for the first goal.”

Tntsports.co.uk

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Europa League

David Moyes Hints Everton Could Be His Final Managerial Stop

David Moyes Everton Manager Press Conference

Everton manager David Moyes has revealed that his current spell with the Toffees might be the final chapter of his long managerial journey.

In a candid chat with PLZ Soccer, Moyes reflected on his return to the dugout after parting ways with West Ham in 2024. Surprisingly, he confessed that he didn’t expect to manage again — but the thrill of football proved too strong to resist.

“I would probably say yes (Everton is my last job), but you never know how football goes. I actually thought West Ham was my last job, and also because I won a trophy, but I tell you what, I got a bug for maybe doing it again,” said Moyes.

The veteran manager, who famously led West Ham to their Europa Conference League triumph, spoke fondly about his motivation to keep going — his family.

“The thought that I could maybe put another medal around my dad’s neck would be something special, so I’ve got to keep believing that’s a chance and hopefully somewhere down the line that will come around,” he added.

Moyes’ West Ham triumph was a defining moment, marking his first major title as a manager — and one that earned him immense respect across the football world.

Now back at Goodison Park, the Scotsman seems determined to channel that same winning spirit into his Everton side. And while he hinted that this might be his final managerial stop, Moyes’ passion for the game suggests he’s not done surprising fans just yet.


At Sports Market International, we bring you the latest stories, insights, and exclusive takes from the world of football and beyond. Stay tuned — because when it comes to sports news, we’re your number one destination for the best sports blog and market analysis.

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Europa League

Anthony Taylor Opens Up On Referee Abuse, VAR Pressure And The “Expectation Of Perfection”

Premier League referee Anthony Taylor officiating a match in England.

Premier League referee Anthony Taylor has spoken candidly about the pressures of modern refereeing, admitting that the abuse he and his family have faced has made him question whether the job is worth it.

In an exclusive interview with BBC Sport, Taylor – who has been officiating in the English top flight for almost 15 years – criticised the “expectation of perfection” culture that referees now face, fueled in part by the introduction of VAR and a win-at-all-costs mentality across football.


“Worst Situation I’ve Dealt With” – Abuse After Europa League Final

Taylor described the 2023 Europa League final between Sevilla and Roma as the most difficult moment of his career. After showing 13 yellow cards in a heated contest, he was publicly branded a “disgrace” by Roma boss José Mourinho.

Later, as he passed through Budapest Airport with his family, Taylor was verbally attacked by angry fans.

“That’s the worst situation I’ve dealt with in terms of abuse,” he admitted. “Not only because I was travelling with family members at the time, but it highlights the impact of people’s behaviour on others. They haven’t been to one match since.”


Referees Under Mental Health Strain

Taylor believes the win-at-all-costs culture in football creates an unhealthy environment for referees at all levels, from grassroots to the Premier League.

“Every weekend, across parks in the UK, young referees are verbally abused by parents on the sideline. That’s not an environment conducive to people getting better,” he said.

He warned that repeated criticism from pundits, fans, and even ex-referees can damage officials’ mental health.


VAR And Unrealistic Expectations

Since the introduction of VAR in 2019, referees have faced unprecedented scrutiny. Taylor says the technology has created a false idea that mistakes should no longer happen.

“Perfection doesn’t exist. But now referees are expected to get every decision right. One week people say VAR is too forensic, the next week they ask why VAR didn’t intervene. People really need to decide what they want.”

Taylor insists that while scrutiny is necessary, the conversation must be more balanced, acknowledging the positives of refereeing performances as well.


“Best Job In The World” – But At A Cost

Despite the challenges, Taylor insists refereeing still holds unique rewards.

“When it comes down to it, it’s one of the best jobs in the world. You’re right in the centre of the action in the most exciting league in the world.”

At 47, Taylor admits he’s nearing the twilight of his career but hopes to continue at the highest level, with the aim of representing England at the 2026 World Cup in North America.


Follow Sports Market International for more insights, interviews, and coverage on the global football landscape.

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Europa League

Alessandro Del Piero Tips Kenan Yildiz To Become The Next Juventus Icon

When a legend like Alessandro Del Piero speaks, the football world listens—and this time, his praise is directed at Juventus’ rising star Kenan Yildiz. The young playmaker has been making waves in Turin, and according to Del Piero, he has everything it takes to become a true Bianconeri icon.

The Del Piero Comparison

Yildiz has often been compared to Del Piero for his playing style and characteristics. It’s not every day a Juventus youngster draws parallels with one of the greatest figures in the club’s history, but in Yildiz’s case, the resemblance is striking. Smooth ball control, creativity, and the confidence to take on defenders—it’s almost like fans are catching glimpses of the past in the present.

Del Piero’s Words Of Encouragement

Speaking with TribalFootball, Del Piero was full of admiration for Yildiz.

“From what I’ve seen so far, both on and off the pitch, he doesn’t need advice,” Del Piero said. “He’s a serious guy, who loves to work hard, who wants to become a symbol of this club and be successful, and rightly so. In my opinion, he’s doing it in the right way.”

That’s high praise from a man who spent nearly two decades carving his name into Juventus’ history books.

The Road Ahead For Yildiz

Of course, Del Piero reminded fans and the player himself that challenges are inevitable. “Obviously, there will be difficult moments, more or less positive ones, and in those moments he will have to rely on the right people,” he explained. “I hope he always has the right people around him who can tell him what he needs to hear at that moment.”

For a young player in a pressure-cooker environment like Juventus, staying grounded and surrounded by positive influences might be just as important as his technical skills.

Why Yildiz Could Be Juventus’ Next Symbol

In modern football, finding a player who not only shines on the pitch but also embraces the identity of a club is rare. Juventus fans crave heroes who embody their values, and Yildiz seems determined to be that figure. His work ethic, humility, and hunger for success line up perfectly with what the Bianconeri faithful expect.

Final Whistle

Sports Market International believes stories like Yildiz’s are what make football the most beautiful game in the world. From the praise of legends like Del Piero to the hunger of rising stars, the cycle of football greatness never stops turning. If Kenan Yildiz stays on this path, Juventus might just have their next icon-in-the-making.

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