Former Manchester United star Patrice Evra has given a rallying speech ahead of the Europa League final.
Not only do Manchester United have the chance to win a trophy on Wednesday evening, but victory in the Europa League final would also qualify the Red Devils for the Champions League and provide a huge financial boost.
United have been the Europa League’s best team this season despite their terrible league form. However, they face Premier League rivals Tottenham in the final, with Ange Postecoglou’s side beating United three times already this season.
The club posted an inspirational video ahead of the final in Bilbao, and former star Patrice Evra has also chimed in to try and motivate the squad.
Photo by Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images
Photo by Stephane Cardinale – Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images
Patrice Evra’s emotional Europa League final speech for Man United
During his eight years as a United player, Evra won the Champions League with the Red Devils in 2008.
He has plenty of experience playing in European finals having also finished as a runner-up in the Champions League three times.
Ahead of Wednesday’s final, Evra has posted an emotional video to the Manchester United squad.
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“I was supposed to come to Bilbao tomorrow for the final in person, to show you support and share my positive energy,” Evra said.
“But, unfortunately, I have to go to Paris for the funeral of my sister on the same day as the final. She was 56, fighting against cancer for 20 years. Resilience. Fighting.
“That’s what I want from you guys tomorrow. Just fight. Bleed for this shirt. For the fans, for the staff, for the people in Manchester.
“There is no excuse. This is your duty tomorrow. I think your coach, Amorim, this is someone I support and believe in, even if we win or lose.”
Evra has been full of praise for Bruno Fernandes, and he will hope the Portuguese star can make the difference on Wednesday evening.
Ruben Amorim set for first European final
Amorim has endured a difficult first season as United head coach but he could still end the season with silverware in his hands.
In Portugal, Amorim enjoyed huge success with Sporting Lisbon, winning their first league title in 19 years as well as three domestic cups.
However, Wednesday will be Amorim’s first European final as a manager. Amorim has huge selection decisions to make for his starting XI, especially with several stars returning from injury.
READ MORE: Ruben Amorim must do something Man Utd have only managed once to win Europa League final, not since Sir Alex in 2000
Joshua Zirkzee returned to training, while Leny Yoro and Diogo Dalot are also in contention to start.
Amorim’s first season as United manager will be judged on whether he brings the Europa League trophy back to Old Trafford. To achieve that, he will have to record a first-ever win over Tottenham and Ange Postecoglou.