The UEFA Europa League final takes place Wednesday as Sevilla and Roma travel to Budapest, Hungary, to fight for European football second largest prize at the Puskas Arena.
The stakes are high and with automatic entry spot in next year’s Champions League tournament.
An option which is only still mathematically possible in league play, but highly unlikely, for Jose Mourinho’s Roma side.
Sevilla’s 2022-23 season was a disaster from all indications, spending much of the season in La Liga’s relegation spots.
However, the Spanish side has experienced a turnaround under new head coach Jose Mendilibar, and they are now favorites to win the trophy many refer to as the Sevilla League due to their repeated success in the competition The Andalusian team has won the competition a record 6 times, without ever losing a final.
Before them lies a Roma team coached by the controversial Jose Mourinho, also known as the Special One.
Despite Sevilla being favorites to win the UEL, one can never count Mourinho out. The Portuguese manager has won 26 pieces of silverware throughout his long career, including the 2017 Europa League with Manchester United.
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While Roma’s defense has kept them afloat in the UEL, their obstacle lies in their attack. With star player Paulo Dybala struggling for fitness, the Giallorossi will be without their most creative player.
Both Joan Jordan and Suso have had to overcome injuries to be in contention to start and, with Marcos Acuna suspended, Tanguy Nianzou and Marcao remain doubtful for the final. Bono will return in goal for Marko Dmitrovic and his compatriot Youssef En-Nesyri will return in place of Rafa Mir up front
For Roma, who have been plagued by injuries all season, Dybala should be available though it’s not likely that he will start. Leonardo Spinazzola is also expected to be back, meaning only Rick Karsdorp and Marash Kumbulla are unavailable.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
