The 2024/25 Europa League Final not only crowned a new champion—it also delivered a fiery showdown between two tough defenders: Cristian “Cuti” Romero and Harry Maguire. The pair clashed multiple times in a heated duel that extended beyond the final whistle.

Tottenham Back on Top in Europe

Tottenham ended a more than 40-year European title drought by defeating Manchester United 1-0 at San Mamés to claim the Europa League crown. Brennan Johnson’s goal was enough to seal a historic victory for the Spurs and secure their spot in next season’s Champions League, despite a disappointing domestic campaign in the Premier League.

Cuti Steps Up as Captain and Key Figure

With Heung-Min Son sidelined, Cristian Romero wore the captain armband and delivered a strong defensive performance. However, it was his fiery encounters with Maguire that stole the spotlight, reigniting a rivalry that already had some history

Tense Clashes and Provocative Gestures

The first major incident occurred in the 49th minute during a set-piece, when both players became entangled and had to be separated by teammates to prevent further escalation.

As the match neared its end, Maguire delivered a hard foul that left Romero on the ground in visible pain. Moments later, Romero responded by celebrating provocatively after Maguire missed a header near goal—just inches away from the Argentine defender.

The Feud Continued After the Final Whistle

Tensions didn’t cool after the match. As players exchanged handshakes, Romero approached the Manchester United group. When he got to Maguire, the English defender refused to shake his hand. Romero patted him indifferently and walked away, prompting Maguire to confront him and tell him to leave.

The night ended with Tottenham lifting the trophy, but the lingering rivalry between Romero and Maguire promises more fireworks in the future