The Europa League is the second tier of European football, and every year it brings excitement as teams from all over Europe compete to be crowned the best. Sevilla who are the most successful in the competition with 7 titles will fortunately not compete and this is very good news for the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur who will be gunning for the title.

Meanwhile, it is necessary to remind you that next season’s UEFA Europa League will be quite different from the usual format. Next season will see the elite competition take a rather “league” form, as against the previous format. Fans of Europa League clubs like a certain Ten Hag-managed side should prepare to get their affordable Man United tickets from an online resale store.

Some teams are standing out as favourites to win the trophy. Let’s take a look at the teams that are considered strong contenders in the Europa League.

Manchester United

Manchester United, also known as the Red Devils, have a team full of talented superstars. They have game-changers like Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford, who can change any game with their ability. United have a rich history of success in European competitions. They won the Europa League in 2017 and are always expected to go far in the tournament.

Erik ten Hag, their manager, who is set to be confirmed as the manager for next season is known for his tactical knowledge and dedication to attacking football. He has had a bittersweet time at the club though with his team finishing an all-time low at 8th position.

However, playing for Man Utd can be quite challenging and fans and critics expect a lot from Manchester United. This pressure can sometimes affect the players’ performance.

Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs are known for their attacking style of play. They score a lot of goals, which makes them dangerous to any opponent.

Ange Postecoglou, their coach, has brought fresh ideas to the team. He wants to win trophies and has built a strong squad to compete in Europe. Last season, they were completely absent from Europe, and Postecoglou will hope to make an impact on the European scene and maybe finally break the trophy jinx for the North London team.

Sometimes, Spurs struggle with their defence. They need to improve on this to have a better chance of winning the tournament.

Spurs had ups and downs in their performances last season, they will need to improve on that as consistency will be key to their success in the Europa League.

Real Sociedad

Real Sociedad, from the Spanish La Liga, have some exciting players like Mikel Oyarzabal and Takefusa Kubo. These players are full of energy and pace and can create scoring opportunities.

They play as a team and have a good balance between defence and attack. This teamwork makes them difficult to beat.

Sociedad have been in good form in their domestic league, which gives them confidence going into European matches.

Compared to some other teams, Sociedad don’t have as much experience in European competitions. This could be a disadvantage in crucial matches.

Being one of the favourites brings pressure. They will need to handle this well to succeed.

Athletic Bilbao

Athletic Bilbao is another Spanish La Liga club that has many experienced players like Ander Herrera, Unai Simon and Inaki Wiliams who have played in big matches before. This experience can be crucial in tight games.

Bilbao are known for their strong defensive play. They don’t concede many goals, which makes them tough opponents.

Sometimes, Bilbao struggles to be consistent and produce good performances regularly. Like Spurs, Bilbao needs to be more consistent in their performances to be able to stand a chance to win the trophy.

AS Roma

Daniel De Rossi, the coach of AS Roma, came in after the sack of Jose Mourinho and he brought in a bounce that has rejuvenated the squad.

Roma has some star players like Paulo Dybala and Stephan El Sharawhy who can make a difference in important matches.

Injuries to key players could be a problem for Roma. They need to keep their best players fit to have a good chance of winning. Maintaining good form throughout the tournament will be crucial for Roma’s success.

Lazio

Lazio has one of Europe’s best strikers Ciro Immobile. He is a goal-scoring machine and can win games on his own. Their midfield is strong and can control games, which helps them create chances and defend well.

Giovanni Martusciello, their manager, has a lot of experience having been an assistant coach to Juventus and some other clubs, he brings useful experience to Lazio. While the Lazio attack can be quite ferocious, the defence can be quite shaky. They need to improve their defending to go far in the tournament.

Being one of the favorites brings extra pressure. Handling this pressure will be important for Lazio.

FC Porto

FC Porto, have a strong history in European competitions. They won the Champions League in 2004 and are used to competing at a high level.

Porto has a mix of experienced players and young talent. They play exciting football and can be very dangerous.

Porto has a solid defence which includes the evergreen Pepe, who can keep out even the best attackers. Their manager Sergio Conceicao, has been at the club for the past 7 years so he has a firm grip on the team.

The Europa League has many strong teams, and Porto will need to be at their best to compete against them. Keeping their key players fit and free from injuries will also be important for their success.

Conclusion

The Europa League for next season is shaping up to be an exciting tournament with many strong teams. Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao, AS Roma, Lazio, and FC Porto are all favorites to win. 

Each team has its strengths and challenges, but they all have the talent and with the right approach can become champs!