NafisaArchie Gray’s journey reached new levels after lifting the Europa League with Tottenham Hotspur, but he hasn’t lost sight of Leeds United.
Tottenham ended their 17-year wait for silverware by edging Manchester United 1-0 in Wednesday’s Europa League final — a moment that sparked celebrations among Leeds United supporters as well.
That wasn’t only due to the fierce enmity between the Whites and Manchester United — which will reignite as Leeds return to the Premier League — but also because of Archie Gray’s involvement.
Gray departed last summer after Spurs activated the release clause inserted into his contract following Leeds’ failed promotion bid, with Joe Rodon heading the opposite way in return.
Nevertheless, Gray remains cherished at Elland Road as he is Leeds royalty. He’s the great-nephew of club legend Eddie Gray, and his younger brother Harry Gray is still with the club — even aiming a cheeky jab at Harry Maguire after full-time.
Leeds supporters were thrilled to see Gray overcome Manchester United to secure his maiden trophy, a moment he confessed felt extra special following last year’s Play-off final heartache.
Archie Gray recalls Leeds United Play-off final heartbreak:
Gray played a pivotal role in Leeds’ promotion push last term, only to see hopes dashed late on as the team slid into the Play-offs.
Daniel Farke’s men reached the final comfortably but fell short against Southampton at Wembley, consigning them to another year in the Championship and triggering the exit of several key players.
Although Gray moved on, he still holds dear his memories at Leeds and the sting of that final defeat.
“We’ve got a lot more to do,” Gray said when asked by TalkSport whether he and Lucas Bergvall were now considered Tottenham icons after helping end the trophy drought in their debut season.
“As I say, [this is] the best day of both of our careers so far. It’s incredible.
“Especially, for me, losing the Play-off final last year, I’ve had the other end of the emotions, to have this is unbelievable.
“I’m grateful for it and hopefully we’ve got quite a few long years here, successful years.”
Archie Gray’s response to Europa League triumph with Tottenham:
Gray drew widespread admiration for his classy actions at the final whistle.
Rather than instantly joining in the jubilant celebrations, he took the time to console every Manchester United player and manager Ruben Amorim before turning to embrace his own teammates.
He later celebrated with his squad but made sure to seek out his manager, Ange Postecoglou, for a heartfelt hug.
Now, Gray is eager to experience Champions League football. He added: “For everyone involved, it’s a special day and one the club will remember forever.
“The fans were brilliant throughout this whole competition. Every game, they stick with us. We’re grateful for having them by our side.
“They are a 12th man, especially in games like this. Hopefully, we’ve brought them a little bit of joy tonight.
“It’s like a dream, init?”
Nafisa
