The Europa League final seems to come too soon for Matthijs de Ligt. Joshua Zirkzee, however, surprisingly appeared on the training pitch with Manchester United on Tuesday.
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Joshua Zirkzee’s 2024/25 season appeared to be all but over when he suffered a muscle injury that ruled him out for several weeks.
The Dutch striker, aged 23, had become an important attacking option for Manchester United throughout the campaign, showcasing his technical ability, movement, and intelligence in the final third. His absence over the last eight matches raised serious doubts about his availability for any remaining fixtures, especially the highly anticipated UEFA Europa League final.
Yet, just one day before the decisive clash against Tottenham Hotspur, Zirkzee made a surprise return to the training ground. His presence at Carrington on Tuesday was an unexpected but welcome sight for manager Rúben Amorim and fans alike. Although it remains unclear whether Zirkzee will be fully fit to start, his inclusion in team drills so close to the final suggests that he could be at least available from the bench a potentially significant boost in a match of such magnitude.
The final itself is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, with kickoff at 21:00. The opponent: Tottenham Hotspur. A classic all-English European final awaits, with silverware and Champions League qualification at stake. For Manchester United, this match is more than a shot at redemption it's a crucial moment that could define the success or failure of their season. Despite ups and downs in the Premier League, winning the Europa League would not only add a major trophy to the cabinet but also secure a direct route into Europe’s top club competition next season.
Zirkzee's recovery, even if partial, is seen as a morale-boosting development in the build-up to the final. The Dutchman has scored vital goals this season and offers a different profile up front, often linking play effectively and occupying defenders with his physical presence. His return could provide Amorim with an option to change the dynamic of the game, especially if it proves tight and cagey as cup finals often are.
While Zirkzee's return was a pleasant surprise, the news around Matthijs de Ligt was far less encouraging. The 25-year-old centre-back has been managing a knee problem that has already sidelined him for United’s last three matches. Earlier in the week, manager Rúben Amorim had expressed optimism that De Ligt could recover in time, but those hopes faded when the Dutch defender failed to participate in full team training on Tuesday. Instead, he followed an individual program, working separately from the main group a clear indication that he is unlikely to be match-fit for the final.
This potential absence is a blow for United’s defensive structure. De Ligt, a former Ajax and Juventus star, has brought leadership and composure to the back line since his arrival at Old Trafford. His reading of the game and aerial ability have made him a cornerstone of the defense during key European fixtures this season. Without him, United will need to rely on less experienced players or adjust their system to compensate for his absence.
Fortunately for Amorim, there was good news elsewhere. Both Leny Yoro and Diogo Dalot returned to training on Tuesday, easing some of the defensive concerns. Yoro, a young and highly regarded French centre-back, has been steadily gaining the trust of the coaching staff, and his composure and pace could be critical if he’s asked to step in for De Ligt. Dalot, meanwhile, has enjoyed a consistent season, proving his worth both defensively and going forward from the right-back position. His return gives United added balance and depth in the wide areas.
Still missing, however, is Lisandro Martínez. The Argentine defender has been out for an extended period and will play no part in the final. His absence has been particularly felt during matches where United struggled to maintain defensive solidity, and his leadership qualities will be missed on such a big stage.
For manager Rúben Amorim, this final represents more than just a trophy opportunity. Having taken charge of United under intense pressure, he has brought a clear tactical identity and a renewed sense of energy to the squad. A Europa League triumph would be the crowning achievement of his first season and could be the beginning of a new project at Old Trafford.
Tottenham, however, will present a formidable challenge. Under their own progressive manager, they’ve shown sharp attacking movement and high-pressing football this season. Players like Son Heung-min, James Maddison, and Cristian Romero are all expected to play major roles in the final, and United will need to be at their tactical best to contain Spurs' threats.
The return of Zirkzee, along with the availability of Dalot and Yoro, gives Amorim valuable options as he prepares his squad for what will undoubtedly be one of the most important matches of their careers. The stakes are enormous: European silverware, a ticket to the Champions League, and the chance to end the season on a high note.
All eyes will be on United and Tottenham when they step onto the pitch on Wednesday night. For Zirkzee, it could be a story of personal redemption; for De Ligt, a cruelly timed setback. And for Manchester United as a whole, the Europa League final is a test of character, depth, and ambition with the club’s immediate future hanging in the balance.
