Previewing the Manchester Derby FA Cup Final
What would the end of the English League season be without one final twist in the FA Cup final between city rivals Manchester United and Manchester City?
After a disastrous end to their season, finishing in 8th place, Manchester United have a rare chance to claw their way into European competition if they can defeat their neighbors at the iconic Wembley Stadium.
The FA Cup final presents a stark contrast in fortunes for the two Manchester clubs. City, sitting at the pinnacle of English football, continue to rewrite the history once dominated by the Red half of Manchester since the end of the Sir Alex Ferguson era. Reflecting the biblical adage, “the first shall be last, and the last shall be first,” United has not only fallen from the top but also finds itself increasingly sidelined from historical relevance season after season.
However, the FA Cup final offers Manchester United a shot at glory, even if briefly, as they transition into a new era with the arrival of INEOS. For Erik ten Hag, the Wembley final is a chance at redemption for the season. If rumors are true, what better way to conclude his two-year stint at the club than by securing two domestic cup trophies on his way out?
It’s a tough challenge, though, as Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, despite their many successes, continue to grow hungrier with each new challenge. To them, their derby rivals are just another hurdle in their quest for more history.
Manchester City, the Premier League champions for four consecutive seasons, are determined to complete their 2023/24 campaign with a double—a feat even Sir Alex Ferguson couldn’t achieve immediately after his legendary 1999 treble.
Pep Guardiola and his team are poised to make history once again, with Erik ten Hag standing as the final obstacle in this all-Manchester FA Cup final.
**Prediction:**
Though easier said than done, a 2-0 triumph for Manchester City seems likely. However, there is every chance this game could go into extra time.
