Fans of both Tottenham and Manchester United have already spent significant amounts on flights and hotel accommodations to reach the Europa League final at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao on May 21.

Local authorities expect over 80,000 fans to travel to Bilbao, with thousands arriving without match tickets. Each club has received around 15,000 tickets, but many more will travel to experience the atmosphere of the stadium and the major event.

Those in the city will need to find alternative routes to the stadium, as the San Mamés metro station, typically used for access, will be closed from 3 PM on match day.

The Bilbao-based newspaper El Correo reported that this decision was made due to concerns over severe overcrowding and potential safety hazards. This will be the first time the station has been completely closed on the day of a major event, with fans prohibited from entering or exiting.

However, metro trains will continue to operate at reduced intervals until 3 AM, and the stadium is within walking distance from the city center. But the station closure is just one of the challenges fans will face in Bilbao.

Local authorities plan to keep Manchester United and Tottenham fans separated on match day. Fan zones for each team will be located on opposite sides of the relatively small city to prevent potential clashes before the game.

Spanish media report that Bilbao residents are bracing for an unprecedented influx of fans. Supporters will pay high prices for flights and accommodations, as airlines and hotels capitalize on the surge in demand.

Sky Scanner previously claimed that direct round-trip flights to Bilbao were available, but prices have surged to £1,700. Some fans may opt for cheaper alternatives like buses, with one-way tickets costing £108, but the 26-hour journey from London may not be feasible for many.