'It would be unfair!' - Man Utd & Tottenham 'do not deserve' Champions League football via Europa League triumph after terrible seasons

Despite their woeful Premier League form - Spurs languishing in 16th and United only marginally better in 14th - both sides are 90 minutes away from reaching the Europa League final. Tottenham hold a two-goal cushion heading into their second leg against Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt, while United boast a commanding 3-0 lead over Athletic Club after a sensational performance at San Mames.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has argued that winning the Europa League would transform what has been a miserable campaign into a success story. However, Petit remains unconvinced and was quick to dismiss the notion that either United or Spurs deserves to join Europe’s elite next season through what he views as a shortcut.

While speaking to FastSlots, Petit said: "Tottenham and Manchester United both have the chance to save terrible seasons in the Europa League, but does either side deserve to play in the Champions League next season? Absolutely not. Both teams don't deserve to be among the Champions League teams for the next season. I wish the best of luck for Manchester United against Bilbao, but looking at the game against Lyon, Lyon should’ve finished United off. Spurs could spring a surprise, but I don't expect anything from Spurs or Manchester United this season. To be honest with you, if one of those clubs wins the Europa League, I think that would be unfair."

Despite Petit's strong criticism, the possibility of United and Spurs meeting in the final remains very much alive. United, bolstered by their convincing first-leg display, will look to finish the job at Old Trafford against an Athletic side that struggled to recover after conceding three goals. Tottenham, meanwhile, must hold their nerve in the challenging environment of Bodo/Glimt’s home ground. The Norwegians have proven tricky opponents in past European campaigns, but Spurs’ two-goal advantage gives them a safety net.

Should both clubs progress, it sets the stage for a dramatic all-English final where one will secure the Europa League crown and a golden ticket into Europe’s premier club competition next term.