Tottenham Boss Questions Timing of Debate Ahead of Europa Semi
Ange Postecoglou has hit back at Arsène Wenger after the former Arsenal manager questioned whether Europa League winners should gain automatic qualification to the Champions League.
Speaking ahead of Tottenham’s Europa League semi-final second leg away to FK Bodø/Glimt, Postecoglou dismissed the timing and tone of Wenger’s comments, saying, “Put Spurs into any sentence and suddenly everyone wants to tear it down.”
Tottenham carry a 3-1 advantage into Thursday’s clash in Norway, and while they sit just 16th in the Premier League, they remain two wins away from Champions League qualification via UEFA’s current rules.
“Spurs Does Crazy Things to People”
Wenger, now serving as FIFA’s head of global football development, suggested Europa League winners should only return to the same competition, especially in leagues like the Premier League where five teams already qualify. Postecoglou responded with sharp humour.
“It’s a debate that seems to only exist this week. Funny that,” he said. “Spurs does crazy things to people. If we weren’t in this situation, I doubt this would be brought up at all.”
He went on to question why the discussion had suddenly become urgent: “The rules are the rules. Why wasn’t this a talking point before? It’s convenient timing now that Tottenham are involved.”
Tottenham Squad News Ahead of Second Leg
The manager also provided updates on team fitness. Midfielder James Maddison has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury sustained in the first leg, while striker Dominic Solanke has travelled and is expected to be available after shaking off a quad issue.
If Spurs see off Bodø/Glimt, they will face Manchester United—currently leading 3-0 against Athletic Club—in the final in Bilbao on May 21.
Wenger’s View Under the Microscope
Wenger told BeIN Sports earlier this week, “In a league with five Champions League spots, giving a sixth through the Europa League might be too much. They should perhaps just return to the Europa League.”
He acknowledged, however, that the current incentive boosts interest and motivation in UEFA’s second-tier competition.