Former Tottenham captain Hugo Loris: Europa League victory is the cornerstone of a new journey

Senior football writer James Ollie reported that Hugo Loris expressed sincere joy for his old club Tottenham Hotspur's victory in the Europa League, believing that this victory has lifted a long-standing burden for Tottenham. Loris, the 38-year-old goalkeeper, bid farewell to Tottenham in February 2024 and ended his 11-year loyal service, and made a total of 447 appearances for the team. Now, he is wearing the Los Angeles FC jersey and is about to face Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup. Loris revealed that Tottenham beat Manchester United 1-0 last month in Bilbao, and he was still excited even though the victory failed to prevent the team from experiencing the worst record in Premier League history - ranked 17th and failed to retain Angel Postkoglu as the coach.

"I am really happy for Tottenham," said Loris. "This joy belongs not only to the club, but also to every hard-working staff and player. We have been chasing this trophy for many years, and now they have finally gotten their wish. This glory is well deserved. I hope this victory can relieve the pressure on their shoulders and become a turning point for Tottenham to move towards the future."

Postcoglu was replaced by Thomas Frank of Brentford last week. Regarding this change, Loris said: "There is nothing in football, but I will not comment. After all, I am in a foreign country and know very little about the club's inside. The club made this decision, perhaps because they found someone who fits the future blueprint. Post Koglu's contribution is indelible. He brought the glory of the Europa League to Tottenham. This joy and pride will always be remembered in our hearts. "

Speaking of Tottenham's performance, Loris added: "They have spent a challenging season, and frequent injuries have seriously affected the team's condition. However, they wisely turned their focus to the Europa League and finally returned to the Cup. This is an alternative path to the Champions League and deserves celebration. Although the league is not ranked well, being able to win the trophy is undoubtedly a huge achievement. As a team that is determined to compete for the championship, we have repeatedly failed, but have always been in the top four. Behind this is the embodiment of the club's long-term planning and strategic choices."