Ange Postecoglou, the manager of Tottenham Hotspur, asserts that winning the Europa League with his club would represent an achievement `on another planet` compared to Erik ten Hag`s FA Cup victory for Manchester United.
The Australian coach, currently under scrutiny, views lifting the trophy in the Basque Country final as a potential way to salvage Tottenham`s season.
However, Postecoglou pushed back against direct comparisons with Ten Hag, who was retained by Manchester United after his 2024 FA Cup success, only to be sacked five months later.
Postecoglou stated that such comparisons `diminish` the significance of a Europa League win, particularly noting that winning this competition guarantees Champions League qualification, a major distinction from the FA Cup.
Pundits have even suggested that Tottenham should dismiss Postecoglou even if his team triumphs in the final in Bilbao, drawing parallels with Manchester United`s decision regarding Ten Hag.
Speaking ahead of the Europa League semi-final first leg against Bodo/Glimt, Postecoglou commented: “I`ve sensed this is how this club is often perceived – people seem determined to belittle its potential accomplishments.”
He added emphatically: “I`ve heard people say, `Well, it`s the equivalent of United winning the FA Cup.` No, it`s absolutely not. On no planet is it the equivalent.”
Tottenham, searching for their first major trophy since the 2008 League Cup, are currently positioned 16th in the Premier League standings after suffering 19 league defeats.
Postecoglou continued to address the criticism: “Others are implying that perhaps we don`t deserve to qualify for the Champions League.”
“Again,” he stated, “these are statements designed to diminish the incredible opportunity that lies before us.”
He concluded: “Regardless of how this season has unfolded so far, generations of our fans desperately want this trophy more than anything.”
Bodo/Glimt previously defeated Postecoglou`s former team, Celtic, twice during the 2022 Conference League campaign.
The Australian manager, currently without injured captain Son Heung-min, acknowledged the quality of their opponents: “Bodo are in the semi-finals based entirely on their merit.”
He added about the upcoming match: “The away game presents a significant challenge – playing on an artificial surface in potentially difficult conditions.”
Marcus Bellamy