In a moment that has lit up football debates across the Premier League fanbase, Roy Keane didn’t hold back after Tottenham Hotspur defeated Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final. With Spurs lifting their first major trophy in 17 years, the former Manchester United captain aimed a cheeky yet pointed remark at Arsenal—highlighting their trophyless season in comparison.
Keane, speaking on CBS Sports, commended Tottenham’s resilience while using the moment to remind viewers that, in the game of football, silverware ultimately defines success. His comment? Spurs have won more than Arsenal this season.
Tottenham Clinch Europa League Glory
Tottenham Hotspur sealed their place in European football history with a gritty 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the 2025 UEFA Europa League final. The game, held at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, showcased a disciplined and tactical Spurs performance.
Son Heung-min scored the only goal of the match in the first half, finishing a well-orchestrated team move that caught United’s defense off guard. Tottenham’s ability to stay compact and absorb pressure was crucial, as they limited United’s clear-cut chances throughout the night.
Manager Ange Postecoglou, under pressure after a rollercoaster domestic campaign, was praised for his strategic approach. With the win, Spurs not only broke their long-standing trophy drought but also secured qualification for the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League.
Roy Keane’s Post-Match Analysis
Roy Keane, never one to sugarcoat his opinions, praised Tottenham’s performance and took a moment to issue a sly jab at Arsenal during the post-match discussion. “They certainly were not Spursy. They defended really well; their attacking play wasn’t great, but it doesn’t really matter,” he said.
The term “Spursy” has long been associated with Tottenham’s reputation for underperforming in crucial games. But for Keane, their Europa League win was proof of a team that had evolved past that label—at least for one night.
He then added a line that stirred up Arsenal fans: “Spurs have won more than Arsenal this season.” The comment instantly trended online, as fans of both clubs took to social media to argue the merits of trophies versus consistency.
Arsenal in the Crosshairs
Despite a strong domestic run and reaching the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, Arsenal ended the 2024–25 season without any silverware. The Gunners were seen as potential contenders across multiple fronts but ultimately fell short in crucial moments—echoing a familiar narrative for the North London club in recent years.
Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have built a reputation for progressive football and youth development. However, Keane’s criticism highlights a deeper conversation in football circles: does consistency matter if there’s no trophy at the end?
Arsenal’s fans argue their overall progression and competitive consistency outshine Spurs’ single triumph, but Keane’s blunt assessment reinforces a more traditional mindset—trophies speak louder than potential.
Reaction from Fans and Pundits
Keane’s remarks immediately sparked debate on platforms like Twitter and Reddit. Spurs fans rejoiced, reveling in their club’s European success and the chance to gloat over their North London rivals. Arsenal supporters, meanwhile, dismissed the dig, pointing to their Champions League run and higher Premier League finish.
Football pundits were split. Some echoed Keane’s view that tangible silverware is the ultimate measure of success. Others acknowledged Arsenal’s broader progress, suggesting that while Spurs won the night, the Gunners are still building something long-term.
Either way, Keane once again reminded the football world why he’s one of the game’s most entertaining—and polarizing—voices in punditry.
FAQs
- What did Roy Keane say about Arsenal?
- Roy Keane remarked, “Spurs have won more than Arsenal this season,” after Tottenham’s Europa League victory, taking a jab at Arsenal’s lack of trophies.
- Who won the 2025 UEFA Europa League?
- Tottenham Hotspur defeated Manchester United 1-0 to win the Europa League.
- Why is the term “Spursy” significant?
- “Spursy” refers to Tottenham’s historical tendency to underperform in big games. Keane said they “certainly were not Spursy” in the final, praising their performance.
- Did Arsenal win any trophies this season?
- No, despite strong performances in the league and Europe, Arsenal ended the season without any silverware.
- What does this mean for Tottenham next season?
- Tottenham qualify for the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League, ending their trophy drought and gaining momentum for the upcoming season.
