Europa League: Everything you need to know about Man Utd, Tottenham’s rivals

The 2024/25 Europa League season is set to bring an exciting new chapter in European football, with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur among the top teams awaiting their opponents.

As the draw approaches, here’s everything you need to know about this season’s competition.

New format

The Europa League has introduced a new format for the 2024/25 season, featuring 36 teams in a single league, a departure from the traditional group stage setup.

Each club will face eight different opponents during the league phase, making every match crucial as they aim to secure a place in the knockout rounds.

This revamped format is expected to bring even more thrilling and competitive matches as teams vie for European glory.

There will be an extra play-off round before the round of 16.

Each team will face one side from each pot at home and one away. Clubs from the same country will be kept apart in the league phase while each team will play a maximum of two opponents from one other nation.

Clubs that finish between ninth and 24th positions, will compete in a two-legged play-off to secure a place in the last 16. Clubs from 25th to 36th will exit the competition.

Manchester United and Tottenham in focus

Manchester United qualified for the competition as FA Cup winners, while Tottenham Hotspur earned their spot by finishing fifth in the Premier League last season.

Both teams will learn their eight league-phase opponents during the draw, set to take place at 12 pm UK time on Friday.

What to expect

The new format promises more unpredictability and excitement, as teams will be tested against a diverse range of European opponents.

The top performers in the league phase will advance to the knockout rounds, where the intensity of the competition will only increase.

With Manchester United and Tottenham both eager to make deep runs in the tournament, the 2024/25 Europa League season is shaping up to be a thrilling contest from start to finish.