Patrice Evra opens up on the heartbreaking reason why Man United legend will MISS Europa League final against Tottenham
Patrice Evra has shared the heatbreaking reason why he will not be able to f ly to Bilbao to watch Manchester United take on Tottenham in Wednesday's Europa League final.
Ruben Amorim 's side will be looking to resurrect a stuttered season at San Mames after an impressive European campaign has kept them in touch for silverware.
The Red Devils will face off with their Premier League rivals under uncannily similar circumstances, with the clubs sitting 16th and 17th in the domestic standings with one game each left to play.
But the Manchester club could yet book a spot in next year's Champions League draw, and fans in their number are flocking to Basque region to watch the team take their chances.
However, Man United legend Evra will not be among them, with the former defender sharing his tragic reasoning on social media on Tuesday.
'Hi guys. I was supposed to come to Bilbao tomorrow for the final in person to show you support, sharing my positive energy,' the France international said in a video shared to Instagram.
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A post shared by Patrice Evra (@patrice.evra)
'But unfortunately, I have to go to Paris for the funeral of my sister on the same day of the final.
'She was 56, fighting against the cancer for 20 years,' Evra, who is one of 23 siblings, added.
Alongside his touching statement - which was met with scores of condolences and well-wishes from his followers - Evra sent a rallying cry to Amorim and his players in lieu of his appearance at San Mames.
'Resilience, fighting. That's what I want from you guys tomorrow. Just fight, bleed for this shirt,' Evra continued.
'For the fans, for the staff, for the people in Manchester, for the fans all around the world, there is no excuse. This is your duty tomorrow.
'I think your coach is someone I support, someone I believe in. Even if we win or we lose, give something guys.
'It's gonna be a tough game. Tottenham also has a lot to lose. They are in the same position in the league like us.
'They didn't win a trophy, so this is a massive chance for them. But this is no excuse. We are Man United.
'Do you know how many fans gonna travel around the world and believe they're gonna celebrate after the game because they believe in you guys, no matter what.
'Because we can do it guys. So like I say, bleed for this shirt, the history. Think about the people, your family or whatever, there is no way other than to win.
'Don't be selfish. It's a qualification in the Champions League, so we can prepare for the future next year.
'So guys, you know, I will be far away. I'm counting on you.'
As well as Evra's call to arms, Man United were handed a major boost in the form of the return to training of three crucial stars.
Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, and Diogo Dalot were all involved in the final session on English soil before the team jetted to Bilbao on the eve of the final.
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