Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has rejected suggestions from former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger that the winner of the Europa League should not automatically qualify for the Champions League.
Wenger, now serving as FIFA's chief of global football development, recently questioned the rule allowing automatic qualification, particularly noting the Premier League could see multiple teams qualify through domestic placement. His remarks sparked debate as the Europa League semifinals near their conclusion.
Under a UEFA rule in effect since 2014, the winner of the Europa League is granted a place in the subsequent season's top European competition. This adds a potential entrant to the field that typically features domestic league qualifiers and previous champions league winners.
Tottenham Hotspur is currently positioned to reach the Europa League final, holding a 3-1 advantage over Bodo/Glimt heading into the second leg of their semifinal tie. Manchester United also holds a strong position after a 3-0 first-leg win against Athletic Club. The winners are set to meet in the final in Bilbao on May 21.
Speaking ahead of his team's second leg, Postecoglou suggested the timing of Wenger's comments was telling, linking the debate to Tottenham's potential success in the competition.
"Spurs does crazy things to people," Postecoglou stated, suggesting the issue was being raised now because Tottenham was on the verge of the final. He argued that whenever Tottenham is involved in a situation, some try to diminish their achievements.
The Australian manager highlighted that the qualification rule has been in place for years without widespread objection, questioning why it has become an issue now. He noted that the rules of the competition are clear.
Wenger, speaking to BeIN Sports, had argued that Europa League winners should qualify for the Europa League again, but "not necessarily for the Champions League." Arsene Wenger's suggestion cited the number of teams already qualifying from leagues like the Premier League as a reason for review.
Postecoglou countered that the rule has been consistent since 2014, allowing teams to earn their spot in the Champions League through winning the secondary European trophy.
"There are competition rules and the rules say that the winner goes into (the Champions League)," Postecoglou said. "And it's not the first year... But it's Spurs mate, they love it. They love it. You love it, don't you?"
