As Tottenham Hotspur gears up for the Europa League final against Manchester United, friends and former teammates reflect on key players’ contributions. Son Heung-min is celebrated for his positivity and commitment as captain. Cristian Romero’s strong character was recognized early in his career. James Maddison displayed confidence from a young age, while Pape Matar Sarr’s tactical acumen and resilience have shone through. Young players like Archie Gray and Brennan Johnson have shown great potential. Richarlison’s humble beginnings and mental strength are highlighted, alongside Ben Davies’ professional growth. Overall, there’s a shared hope for a Tottenham victory amid personal stories of support and pride.
As Tottenham Hotspur gears up for the Europa League final against Manchester United in Bilbao on Wednesday night, a mix of family, friends, former coaches, and teammates provide insights into a squad eager to break a 17-year trophy drought.
Son Heung-min
Kevin Wimmer, friend and former teammate at Spurs
During my early days at Spurs, I recall our team manager, Allan Dixon, mentioning the arrival of another German-speaking player and asking if I could help him fit in. I anticipated either a German or another Austrian, but it turned out to be Sonny.
I recognized him from the Bundesliga, though we weren’t close then. From that very first day, it was evident he was an amazing individual. His presence undoubtedly lifts the team’s spirit; his positive energy and humor always bring joy, though he’s serious when needed. His influence is especially noticeable now that he leads as captain.
Son and Wimmer during their time together (Clive Rose/Getty Images)
We spent nearly every day together at Tottenham for two years, engaging in post-training PlayStation sessions and dinners out. His parents lived with him, and I often visited their home where his mother would prepare meals for us, treating me like family.
In football, it’s common to lose touch with past teammates after switching clubs, but that was just the beginning of our friendship, and we still communicate regularly. Earlier this season, I visited him in London, and we were in contact during the latter stages of the Bodo/Glimt match as it became clear Spurs were headed to the final.
Winning this trophy would be a dream fulfilled for Sonny. He has dedicated many years to the club and consistently made sacrifices for the team. I’ll be cheering from Bali; it would mean the world to him, and I truly hope he succeeds.
Cristian Romero
Miguel Veloso, teammate at Genoa
I recall Cuti joining Genoa in 2018 as a 20-year-old, adapting to a new country, culture, and language. He arrived brimming with personality and determination, working hard every day. Initially, he trained with the first team, although coach Davide Ballardini had him playing with the Primavera (youth team).
However, when Ivan Juric took over in October for his first match against Juventus, he included Cuti in the starting 11, marking a pivotal moment.
Romero clashes with Juventus forward Mario Mandzukic on his Genoa debut (Marco Bertorello/Getty Images)
He exhibited outstanding performances from then on. I always believed he had immense potential due to his strong character and ball control.
When he transferred to Juventus, I was stunned to see him sidelined, but once he moved to Atalanta with Gian Piero Gasperini, I was certain he would develop into a top-class centre-back. I’m thrilled for his success. During our time together, we connected well; he’s a great person and a leader by example.
I’m extremely proud of his accomplishments; he truly deserves them.
James Maddison
Steven Pressley, manager at Coventry City
There have been few players in my experience where I knew from just one viewing that they would become elite. From the moment I first saw James, I sensed he was exceptional.
From his initial training session with the first team, he displayed confidence and a determination to control the game, despite being the youngest player on the field. He had that rare ability to dictate the tempo, evident in his play today — he transitions the game from slow to fast effortlessly. His leadership at Spurs mirrors the character he showed at 16 among older teammates, demanding the ball and setting the pace.
A 17-year-old James Maddison during his Coventry days (Nigel French/Getty Images)
I felt his technical skill was already honed, so I focused on aiding his mindset and understanding of professional football. That was where I could make the most impact.
There was a moment when he might not have cleaned the dressing room or boots adequately, and as a consequence, his punishment was to clean my car. It was about instilling standards, making him realize what it takes to be a legitimate footballer, living that life every moment. He has blossomed into a fantastic player and an impressive young man, supported by a wonderful family, which is crucial for every young player. I take pride in seeing him rise to the top.
Pape Matar Sarr
Go Sarr, coach at Wally Daan FC in Thies, Senegal
Pape arrived at my training center in Thies at the tender age of four, and it quickly became evident that he possessed attributes that could lead him to the highest levels of football.
His first quality is mental resilience. He plays unfazed by pressure, always lifting his teammates, maintaining a positive attitude: I must pass, I must win, I must play, I must progress. The second is his tactical understanding of the game; he knows when to act and can interpret situations intelligently. He also boasts remarkable endurance, which makes him an exceptional midfielder. This is evident when he carries the ball for Spurs, showcasing his fitness and stamina.
A young Pape Matar Sarr (Go Sarr)
Senegal is proud to see one of our own in the Europa League final, marking the second Senegalese player after Sadio Mane in a Champions League final in 2019. The town of Thies, the family, and we as a nation are celebrating.
We’re optimistic for a Tottenham victory.
Archie Gray
A letter from cousin Nick Gray
Dear Archie,
The Leeds fan in me was crushed when you left for Tottenham last year, knowing we lost one of our best players. But as a proud family member, I recognized your desire to challenge yourself at the highest level against the best.
We never imagined that less than a year later, you’d be competing in a significant European final, just 90 minutes away from your first major trophy.
I can’t express how proud our entire family is of your achievements thus far. Your character and skills are evident in how quickly you adapted to Premier League and European competition, especially considering you often played outside your preferred midfield role.
The Gray family, including Archie (Nick Gray)
It feels like just yesterday you were playing in the garden with the other kids, fiercely competing with your cousins and brothers. It appears some of those matches were as cutthroat as the ones you’re playing today. Last Sunday, your two youngest siblings nearly had a brawl over a ‘mistimed’ tackle — some things never change!
From backyard games to Elland Road, and now to Bilbao, it’s all happened so fast.
Your family will be watching next Wednesday with immense pride, hoping for your success. But win or lose, know that we are all incredibly proud of you, your career, and the fine man you’ve grown into on and off the pitch.
It’s rare for me to root for a club other than Leeds United, but I’ll certainly be making an exception this week. Best of luck, Archie; we’re all behind you!
From Nick and the entire Gray family.
Pedro Porro
Filipe Çelikkaya, coach at Sporting CP
The first time I encountered Pedro was when he joined Sporting CP at 20. He quickly became an essential part of the team, winning everyone over with his incredible personality and a constant smile. He had all the right ingredients for success: hard work, humility, and a willingness to learn.
His skills in the attacking third, plus an intensity in every challenge, marked his play. Adapting to a wing-back role was challenging given the differing system in Portugal, but I believe it was vital for his growth. Over that first season, he evolved, grasping the coach’s expectations. It was the opportunity he needed to reach the Premier League’s top level.
On Wednesday, it will be interesting to see him face Ruben Amorim, the coach who recruited him at Sporting.
Everyone at Sporting is proud of Pedro and wishes him the best. His former teammates miss him dearly, and we always celebrate the successes of our former players.
Micky van de Ven
Wim Jonk, coach at Volendam
I saw Mickey for the first time when he was 18, playing for Volendam Under-19s. He exhibited immense physical strength, but there was room for improvement.
Mickey initially displayed some laziness. We emphasized the importance of focus. A defender at the top level must stay ahead, attentive to every detail. Sometimes he would think, ‘I can do that tomorrow’. It’s essential to do it today, too!
An 18-year-old Van de Ven (far left) with Volendam under-23s (Erwin Spek/Getty Images)
Ultimately, the player must decide his path. As coaches, we can guide him and create a plan, which we did extensively, but the responsibility primarily rests with the player. He must focus on every detail. I’m thrilled to see his dedication paying off and proud to see him competing at this level.
Radu Dragusin
Svetlana Simion, mother
Radu was an exceptional boy; he was either at school, at football practice, or home completing his homework. His ambitions were clear: to excel in football and achieve good grades!
He started playing football at around seven. Aside from a brief injury before his time at Juventus and his recent surgery, he’s been dedicated to training without fail.
My athletic background includes playing basketball for the Romanian national team and winning the European Championship, while Radu’s father, Dan, competed in volleyball at a national level, giving him great sporting genes.
Radu Dragusin playing for Juventus U17s in 2019 (Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The knee injury in January shocked us all; it was his first significant setback. However, Radu is extremely mentally resilient, and he understands he’ll come back stronger. His recovery has been remarkable, and he’s working diligently.
Everyone is excited about the final; some family members will be there, while others will watch from home. I won’t be in Bilbao because I’ll be celebrating my mother’s 80th birthday, but we’ll all gather to watch the game.
This is the essence of team sports. Regardless of playing time, injuries, or circumstances, it’s a family affair. Being in sports feels like having a second family, as you spend more time training and on the field than you do at home. The team becomes our extended family. It’ll be an exciting match, and I hope for victory.
Let’s go Spurs!
Dominic Solanke
Dan Du-Heaume, teacher at Brighton Hill Community School
When Dom joined our school at 11, we learned from his primary school that he had been part of Chelsea’s youth academy from a young age. We knew he was talented, but his skills surpassed our expectations when we observed him play.
I served as his PE teacher during his initial three years. I wish I could claim credit for his talents, but he was simply a natural. With poise and grace on the ball, he effortlessly maneuvered past several players before passing to teammates for their glory. He was modest and humble.
What stood out about Dom was his unique life as a footballer, training with Chelsea and competing for England in various tournaments. While stereotypes suggest prima donna attitudes in big clubs, Dom remained down-to-earth, connecting with all types of people.
He was an excellent teammate and student, quiet yet dedicated. Academically, he wasn’t particularly strong, but he was hard-working and well-behaved.
As Dom’s career advanced at Chelsea, it became clear he needed to be closer to the club, resulting in his departure at year nine. We’ve followed his journey from Chelsea to Liverpool to Bournemouth and now Spurs, filled with pride in his achievements.
If only I had placed a wager on him playing for England! I was confident it would happen.
Richarlison
A letter from Guilherme Xavier, former teammate at America
Querido Richarlison,
Your first training session with America’s first team is etched in my memory. While I knew your talent, the veteran players were astonished by your strength and intelligence. You’ve consistently surprised everyone throughout your career.
Our time in the youth team together was memorable; beyond the pitch, we bonded in the dorms, sharing dreams about the future and laughing at silly jokes. Your honesty and humility resonated with me. You never let your rising fame inflate your ego.
Xavier and Richarlison (centre) during their time at America Mineiro
Even back then, I believed you’d achieve great things. I might have had more confidence in your journey than you did. You weren’t just a natural on the field; you put in the effort, knowing when to joke but focusing when it mattered. That intensity has shaped you into the player you are today.
Although you’ve faced challenges in recent years, including your mental health struggles, I’m glad you seem happier now, like the old Richarlison. We may not have spoken in years, but I want you to know I’m always here for you, supporting you. Winning the Europa League would be monumental for both you and Tottenham, and I’ll be cheering for you on Wednesday.
Ben Davies
Leon Britton, teammate at Swansea City
To be honest, I never thought Ben was destined for the first team at Swansea. Credit must go to Michael Laudrup (the manager) for having faith in him. When Neil Taylor suffered an injury early in the 2012-13 season, Ben proved me wrong, seamlessly integrating into the team.
At the time, Ben drove a VW Polo, whose crank windows were stuck. Ashley Williams, our captain, quipped that Ben couldn’t arrive at the stadium in such a car after making it to the Premier League.
Many players would have flaunted their new contracts by driving extravagant cars, but Ben’s humility kept him grounded; he didn’t want to appear as though he’d ‘made it’ after just a handful of games.
Today, over ten years later at Spurs, Ben’s professionalism, character, and skills tell the story of his incredible journey. I’m so happy for him, and I hope he can win a European trophy — it would mean so much to him after dedicating so long to Tottenham.
Brennan Johnson
Gareth Holmes, coach with Nottingham Forest Under-18s
I vividly recall the game where a young Brennan truly shone. At 16, he played with the under-23s against Birmingham City, and I left that match thinking, ‘This is the beginning of something special.’
Brennan was a reserved young man yet possessed an inner confidence that was palpable. That day, he conveyed, ‘This is me; I’m ready to show my capabilities.’
Even at a young age, he managed to glide with the ball and exhibited remarkable vision while running at pace. He was slender and faced an injury at 14, prompting a wait for his physical growth to match his technical skills. However, his potential was evident, and once he matured, it was thrilling to see.
Johnson as a youngster at Forest with friend Jude Brittain
His desire to score and impact games was remarkable. He demonstrated bravery and intensity, which grew over time.
In a memorable FA Youth Cup match against Leicester City, we went down to 10 men. Although he had limited touches, Brennan’s commitment to teamwork shone through with his relentless effort and outstanding work rate.
His parents, David and Alison, supported him immensely, especially with David’s background as a former player. He understood that becoming a professional was more than just a goal; it required effort and dedication. They pushed him to be driven and focused.
Brennan comes from an excellent family, which often correlates with the best players being good people. He has achieved much with Forest and now Spurs, but he still made time to send my son a birthday message.
Rodrigo Bentancur
Horacio Anselmi, talent scout for Boca Juniors
I was delivering a lecture in Colonia Valdense, Uruguay, discussing youth and football. While observing a match, I saw a little boy playing against adults, and he was exceptional. A man named Daniel Fernandez Tocci asked if I liked him, and I replied enthusiastically — the boy was fantastic! To my surprise, he was only 12.
I mentioned him during my lecture, emphasizing the initial steps to transition from a child to a top-class footballer. The boy’s family approached me afterward, inquiring about joining Boca Juniors. They were lovely people, and they later gifted me with local cheese.
A few weeks later, Rodrigo was living with his aunt in Buenos Aires and began his transformation into the exceptional player he is today. I always sensed he would succeed. My role is to scout talent, not only in football but also in athletics, weightlifting, and wrestling. It’s a joy to witness children grow into successful athletes.
Seeing young talents I identified years ago achieving success brings immense happiness. Knowing that my observations contributed to their journeys is incredibly rewarding.
Lucas Bergvall
A letter from parents Andreas and Malin Bergvall
Dear Lucas,
Where do we even start? From the moment you graced us with your presence on February 2, 2006, as our middle son and cherished brother to Theo and Rasmus, you’ve been enveloped in love.
Your football passion ignited early. Fiercely competitive and resolute, you took your nutrition and rest seriously, doing everything necessary to optimize your potential — always with our support.
A young Bergvall — already making strides in football (Andreas Bergvall)
Your unwavering love for the game — sleeping with the ball, carrying it everywhere — has shape your identity. That passion remains. Today, you’re grounded, sociable, and a person of integrity, standing firm in your principles.
You are deeply loved. Your kindness, generosity, and happy demeanor define the exceptional person you have become. At your young age, you’ve achieved much, but your journey is far from over — the best is yet to come.
Your first year abroad has been extraordinary. Witnessing you reach a Europa League final is surreal and unforgettable for everyone who’s supported you. We are immensely proud!
Wishing you all the success in the world.
With love,
Mom, Dad, and your brothers xx
Ange Postecoglou
Micky Petersen, former teammate, assistant coach, and lifelong friend
Where do I begin? It’s extraordinary — we go back nearly 45 years. He’s just a boy from Prahran, Melbourne. We started in school and junior soccer, eventually playing at South Melbourne, which was Australia’s premier club. Knowing him through various stages of life has been a remarkable journey. He hasn’t changed one bit.
We all don different hats at times, whether in front of the media or dealing with owners, but when I caught up with him during pre-season last year, it felt refreshing. We had lunch, and he was simply enjoying life. His love for football runs deep; he’s a football historian. We idolized players like Glenn Hoddle and Kenny Dalglish; it’s surreal for him to manage a club like Tottenham.
Postecoglou (left) and Micky Petersen (right) from their days at South Melbourne (Micky Petersen)
The moment I heard he made the final, I realized the significance — it echoes stories from the past when Craig Johnston represented Liverpool and Australia. Despite feeling distant, it’s a remarkable moment for us Australians. Ange has shattered barriers in his career, and it’s no surprise to see him navigating the complexities of football.
Remember when South Melbourne faced Man United at the World Club Championship 25 years ago? Now, here we are again, a full circle — Ange leading Spurs against Man United in a European final. What an incredible story.
A dream for Ange and Australian football, and I’m sure he represents all of Australia in his journey. We’ll be supporting him every step of the way on Thursday morning.
Interviews: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jay Harris, Elias Burke, Daniel Taylor, Phil Hay, Stuart James, Jack Lang, Oliver Kay, Charlie Eccleshare