After 151 years of FA Cup Final history, a mere twelve months have passed since the first-ever final between the two Manchester giants, and here we are again, on the cusp of another epic showdown. The highly anticipated clash at Wembley will see Manchester United take on the formidable Manchester City for the second consecutive year. Last season, City triumphed 2-1 with Ilkay Gundogan scoring a sensational volley just 13 seconds into the game, setting the tone for a historic treble-winning campaign.
This year, Manchester City have continued their imperious form, securing the Premier League title and aiming to add another FA Cup to their burgeoning trophy cabinet. In stark contrast, Manchester United have experienced a turbulent season, finishing a disappointing 8th in the league. However, the FA Cup final offers a golden opportunity for redemption and a potential swan song for Erik ten Hag, whose tenure with the Red Devils may be drawing to a close.
With high stakes, historical significance, and a fierce city rivalry, this year’s FA Cup final promises to be a captivating spectacle. Will Manchester City maintain their dominance, or can Manchester United rise to the occasion and claim a much-needed victory? The stage is set for an unforgettable encounter.
Road to the FA Cup Final:
Manchester United’s journey to the FA Cup final has been a testament to their resilience and determination, despite a challenging season. It began in January with a solid 2-0 victory over Wigan, setting the tone for their cup campaign. They then faced Newport County and emerged victorious with a 4-2 win. February saw United edging out Nottingham Forest with a narrow 1-0 triumph.
The intensity ramped up in March, when they battled past Liverpool in a thrilling 4-3 encounter. April brought a dramatic 3-3 draw against Coventry, showcasing United’s fighting spirit as they edged through on penalties. Each match has brought its own drama and challenges, but United have navigated through, reaching the final with a mix of grit and flair.
FA CUP CONQUERERS 🔥
— 365Scores (@365Scores) March 17, 2024
Manchester United beat Liverpool in a huge 4-3 battle featuring a red card to make it to the semifinals and go on to face Coventry City 💪#ManchesterUnited #EmiratesFACup #Liverpool #365Scores pic.twitter.com/PTenQ4uT3P
Manchester City’s path to the FA Cup final has been marked by dominant performances and clinical victories. Their campaign kicked off with a resounding 5-0 win over Huddersfield in the 3rd round, showcasing their attacking prowess. In the 4th round, they faced a tougher challenge but managed to edge out Tottenham with a 1-0 victory.
The 5th round saw City in formidable form, demolishing Luton Town 6-2 in a display of offensive might. The quarter-finals brought a solid 2-0 win against Newcastle, underlining their defensive strength. Finally, in the semi-finals, City secured their place in the final with a narrow but decisive 1-0 victory over Chelsea. Each match has highlighted City’s depth, skill, and determination, paving their way to another potential trophy.
Team News:
Manchester United could have Mason Mount available for Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City, although any appearance would likely come from the bench. United have been boosted by the recent returns of Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Lisandro Martinez. Additionally, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof, and Anthony Martial were all spotted in training this week. Despite being included in England’s provisional squad for Euro 2024, Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire are extremely unlikely to be fit for the final. Tyrell Malacia remains out.
The league champions are expected to have nearly their entire squad available for the FA Cup final. However, goalkeeper Ederson will be absent due to a facial injury sustained against Tottenham earlier this month. Stefan Ortega, who impressed in the match against Spurs, will step in as his replacement.
Key Players:
Manchester United: Casemiro
While this season has not been his most prolific, Casemiro remains a crucial player for Manchester United. Last year, he was on fire, but this season has seen a stark drop-off in his performance. Despite this, he still has moments of brilliance and, if this is to be his final game for United, he will be eager to give his all for the team. A yellow card might be inevitable, but if he can break up some of City’s attacks and neutralize Phil Foden, he will be indispensable. Casemiro was excellent against Brighton in United’s last game, proving he still possesses quality. His experience and defensive skills will be vital in countering City’s formidable attack.
Manchester City: Phil Foden
Phil Foden has been instrumental for Manchester City this season, taking on new responsibilities and firmly entering the ‘world-class’ conversation at just 23 years old. Recently named the Premier League Player of the Season, Foden has been involved in 10 goals in his last nine appearances across all competitions, scoring nine and assisting one. He has a remarkable record against Manchester United, netting six goals in his last five games against them, with only Brighton conceding more goals to him (eight). Foden’s creativity, vision, and clinical finishing make him a key threat. His ability to find spaces and create scoring opportunities will be crucial for City in the final.
Congratulations to Manchester City star, Phil Foden, on winning the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year award 🔥
— 365Scores (@365Scores) May 3, 2024
Is Foden the best English star of this generation? 👀 pic.twitter.com/sylT5AeHNQ
FA Cup Final – Key Statistics:
- Manchester City have won seven games in a row (conceding just two in the process) and have not lost a game (in 120 mins) since December
- It’s only the second time in FA Cup history the same fixture has been played in the final in consecutive years, after Blackburn Rovers vs Queen’s Park in 1884 and 1885.
- United have lost six of their last seven meetings with Manchester City in all competitions, including each of the last three in a row. Their last win against City was in January 2023, at Old Trafford.
- United are hoping to win the FA Cup for their 13th time, with only Arsenal (14) having ever won the tournament more times.
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter
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