Previewing the Manchester derby FA Cup final

What would the end of the English League season be without one final twist to the campaign in the FA Cup final between City rivals; Manchester United and Manchester City in a derby affair?

After seeing a disastrous end to their season that leaves them finishing in 8th-place, Manchester United have a rare chance of clawing their way into Europe if they can beat their neighbors at the famous Wembley stadium.

It is a contrast in fortunes for both Manchester clubs with City sitting at the pinnacle of English football and rewriting every history the Red half of Manchester has ever written since the end of the Sir Alex Ferguson era. And alluding to the popular biblical saying; ‘the first shall be the last, and the last shall be the first’, United has not only falling from the top, but now sees itself relegated from history season after season.

The FA Cup final however, stands a chance for glory again for Manchester United, even if for a short lived time as they enter a new era with the arrival of INEOS. For Erik ten Hag, the Wembley final is redemption for the season, and if the rumors are true, what better way to bow out than to complete a two year stint at the club with 2-domestic cup trophies on the way out?

A tough ask it is however, as Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City despite their many success, still continue to grow hungrier with every challenge that comes their way. Their derby rivals, Manchester United to them, are another hurdle to climb to achieve yet another history.

They are premier league champions in 4-consecutive seasons, but that in no way diminishes their hunger to complete their 2023/24 campaign with the double. A feat Manchester United’s legendary manager, Sir Alex Ferguson could not do right after completing the treble in 1999.

Pep Guardiola and his team sit on the turf waiting to rewrite another history, with no one but Erik ten Hag to challenge them in an all Manchester FA Cup final.

Prediction:

Easier said, but we will stay safe with a 2-0 triumph for Manchester City. However, there is every likelihood this game goes to extra time.