5 Things To Look Out For In this Year’s FA Cup Final
Erik Ten Hag’s Last Game In Charge Of Manchester United?
As reported by Di Marzio and The Guardian today, Friday, May 24th, this will most likely be Erik Ten Hag's final game in charge of Manchester United. This decision comes after a lackluster season for United, finishing in 8th, the clubs worst placed finish in the Premier League so far.
Speaking ahead of Saturday's final, Erik Ten Hag was asked if this would be his final game, but he refused to comment on the matter. Instead, he stated that he is solely focused on the upcoming match against Manchester City. This has not squashed the swirling rumors and speculations about his imminent departure, with many fans expressing shock and dismay at the timing of this revelation.
The timing of the news has surprised many Manchester United fans, who feel that this development is a major distraction ahead of the most important game of the season. It has also lead to widespread discussion on social media, with supporters questioning the board's decision to let such information leak just before the crucial final.
In terms of potential replacements, Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna has emerged as a front-runner. United representatives have already spoken to him, and he is considered the most desired candidate by the board. McKenna, who has a history with Manchester United's youth and coaching set up, is seen as a promising choice to take the club forward. He is also said to be very keen on the role.
However, the search for a new manager doesn't end there. According to German journalist Florian Plettenberg, United have also been in talks with Thomas Tuchel. Tuchel, who is currently without a club following his departure from Bayern Munich, is another high-profile option. His availability and experience make him an attractive candidate for the role.
The situation remains fluid, and it is clear that the Manchester United board is keen on making a swift decision following the final.
2. Injury News
Manchester United have been plagued by injuries throughout the season, but it seems Erik Ten Hag will have a relatively healthy squad to choose from for the final. This is a significant boost for United, who have been struggling to maintain consistency due to frequent injuries to key players.
One of the most crucial returns is that of Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese playmaker is all set to start, having recovered from injury scares three weeks ago. His presence will be vital for United's creative play and goal-scoring opportunities. Fernandes has been a pivotal figure in the team, and his return comes at a crucial juncture. England defender Harry Maguire is also making a return to fitness.
Lisandro Martinez, who has missed almost the entire season due to injury, is said to be fit for the game. Martinez's return will bolster United's defensive options.
Rafael Varane, Martinez's central defensive partner from last season, is also looking to make it back for the trip to Wembley. Varane's experience and composure under pressure are invaluable, especially against a team of Manchester City's calibre. Additionally, new signing Mason Mount will be available on the bench.
As for Manchester City, their only significant injury concern is their goalkeeper Ederson. The Brazilian shot-stopper suffered a fractured eye socket against Tottenham in their crucial Premier League clash a week and a half ago. His absence could be a significant blow for City, as Ederson's shot-stopping ability and distribution are key components of their play.
However, City otherwise boasts a fit and healthy squad. Key players like Phil Foden and Erling Haaland are all set to try and retain their trophy. Foden's creativity and Haaland's goal-scoring prowess have been instrumental in City's success this season. With these players available, City will be confident in their ability to perform at their best.
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter at Wembley, with both teams gearing up for what promises to be an intense and competitive final. The return of key players for Manchester United and the near-full strength of Manchester City's squad set the scene for a match that could go down to the wire. Fans on both sides will be eagerly awaiting the final whistle, hoping to see their team lift the trophy.
3. Chance For Payback For United
This year’s FA Cup final marks the second consecutive Manchester derby showdown on this grand stage. Last year's final saw Manchester City crowned champions, propelling them towards a historic treble—a feat once achieved and cherished by Manchester United in 1999. However, for United, the bitter memory of last year's final will still hurt, as it presented a golden opportunity to halt their rivals' march towards glory.
For Manchester United, last year's final represented more than just a chance to claim silverware—it was an opportunity to deny their noisy neighbors a place in history. However, despite their best efforts, United fell short, succumbing to a defeat that left a bitter taste in the mouths of players, fans, and management alike.
The pain of seeing Manchester City lift the historic English trophy in front of their own eyes is something that serves as a constant reminder of what could have been—a missed opportunity to assert their dominance when it comes to derbies between the two.
4. Tactics
Manchester City are expected to dominate possession in the upcoming FA Cup final, but the key question remains: how will they exploit Manchester United's defense? United, in recent weeks, have adopted a tactical approach that emphasizes defensive stability and structural solidity.
Since the Brighton game three weeks ago, United have opted for a lineup featuring four midfielders, with Bruno Fernandes deployed as a makeshift striker. Sofian Amrabat has been a crucial presence in midfield alongside Kobe Mainoo and Scott McTominay. This tactical adjustment has provided United with greater defensive resilience and a more stable formation on the pitch.
On the other hand, Manchester City will rely on their formidable midfield to unlock United's defense. Player of the Year Phil Foden is expected to play a pivotal role in midfield, utilizing his creativity and vision to create scoring opportunities. Alongside Foden, Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri are likely to feature, providing a blend of attacking threat and defensive solidity in midfield.
The right-wing position appears to be destined for Bernardo Silva, who has been in fine form throughout the season. Meanwhile, the left-wing position presents a dilemma for Manchester City, with both Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku enjoying consistent seasons.
As the tactical battle unfolds at Wembley, both managers will be tasked with devising strategies to gain the upper hand. Manchester City's possession-based approach will clash with Manchester United's defensive solidity, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter between two fierce rivals. The outcome of the final could hinge on which team can execute their tactical plan more effectively on the day.
5. What The Result Means For Chelsea And Newcastle?
As the attention of football fans worldwide turns towards Wembley, supporters of Newcastle United and Chelsea will be watching closely, as the outcome will have significant ramifications for their clubs' European aspirations.
For Newcastle and Chelsea fans, the result at Wembley will directly impact their teams' involvement in European competitions next season. The allocation of Europa League and Europa Conference League spots hangs in the balance, with the final determining which clubs will secure coveted places in these tournaments.
Newcastle United supporters will be hoping for a Manchester City victory, as it would ensure their club's participation in the Europa Conference League. Newcastle finished seventh in the Premier League, narrowly missing out on a place in the Europa League. However, a City triumph in the FA Cup final would elevate Chelsea to the Europa League, thereby opening up a spot for Newcastle in the Europa Conference League.
Similarly, Chelsea fans will be keeping a close eye on events at Wembley, knowing that their club's European fate hinges on the outcome of the final. A Manchester City victory would see Chelsea elevated to the Europa League, offering them a chance to compete in Europe's second-tier competition. This would represent a significant boost for Chelsea, who finished sixth in the Premier League and narrowly missed out on automatic qualification for the Europa League.
The stakes are equally high for Manchester United supporters, who have grown accustomed to seeing their team compete in European competitions season after season. The last time Manchester United did not play in Europe was during the 2014-15 campaign, highlighting the club's consistent presence on the continental stage.
If Manchester United emerge victorious at Wembley, they will secure a place in the Europa League, joining Tottenham Hotspur as representatives from the Premier League. However, defeat would see Manchester United miss out on European football altogether next season, marking a significant setback for the club and its ambitions.