Wed May 07 20:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Postecoglou Defends Europa League Champions League Qualification After Wenger’s Criticism

**London, UK** – Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has dismissed comments from Arsenal legend Arsène Wenger questioning the automatic Champions League qualification for the Europa League winner. Wenger suggested last week that the Europa League champion shouldn’t be guaranteed a Champions League spot.

Postecoglou, whose Spurs team holds a commanding 3-1 lead over Bodo/Glimt in their Europa League semi-final, responded with a chuckle, highlighting the existing rules and questioning the timing of Wenger’s criticism. “It is the rules,” Postecoglou stated. “Why was it not an issue before? Last year, fifth place didn’t get you in – this year it does.”

He further suggested a bias against Tottenham, commenting, “Spurs does crazy things to people. You put this club into any sentence and they all come out to try and diminish any way they can.” Despite his playful riposte, Postecoglou expressed respect for Wenger, calling him “one of the legends of the game.” He added, “But it’s Spurs. They love it, you love it. Bring it on.”

Tottenham travels to Norway for the second leg of their semi-final on Thursday, while Manchester United, also strong contenders for the Europa League title, host Athletic Club at Old Trafford. The outcome of these matches will determine which Premier League team will secure a Champions League spot via the Europa League.

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