On Saturday, 25 May, within the FA Cup Final, Manchester City will host Manchester United at 17:30 GMT. While the Citizens secured the championship title last weekend and have hit an excellent form this spring, the Red Devils have had a disastrous campaign and will likely play their final match under Ten Hag's leadership.
The match will take place in London at Wembley Stadium.
Having won the FA Cup last year, Manchester City are clear favourites to triumph in this year's tournament. In the previous rounds, the Citizens first thrashed Huddersfield (5:0), then triumphed over Tottenham (0:1), Luton Town (2:6), Newcastle (2:0), and Chelsea in the semi-finals (1:0). In the Premier League, Pep Guardiola's side continues to dominate, securing their 4th consecutive title and 6th in the last 7 years just last weekend. Moreover, this spring, the Sky Blues have been in phenomenal form, remaining unbeaten in 23 domestic fixtures (19 wins and 4 draws).
City's last league victory came on the past Sunday against West Ham (3:1), with Phil Foden scoring a brace in the first half and Rodri sealing the fate of the Hammers on 59 minutes. City has been averaging three goals per game this season and conceded just two goals in their last seven matches across all competitions. In the FA Cup Final, City will miss their primary goalkeeper Ederson, but Guardiola will field an optimal lineup.
After a highly disappointing season, Manchester United have a chance to partially redeem themselves in the eyes of their fans by winning the FA Cup this weekend. In previous rounds, the Red Devils first overcame Wigan (0:2), Newport (2:4), and Nottingham Forest (0:1), before edging out Liverpool (4:3 after extra time) and Coventry in the semi-finals (3:3, win on penalties). Erik ten Hag's men had to be content with an 8th place finish in the Premier League, thus next year's European competition participation hinges on a triumph on Saturday.
Following a string of poor results, United ended their domestic campaign with victories over Newcastle (3:2) and Brighton (0:2) last weekend. However, United face an injury crisis with defenders Shaw and Maguire, midfielders Mount and Malacia all sidelined. Additionally, there is uncertainty over the fitness of key centre-back Lindelöf and forward Martial. the flanks.
In the Premier League this season, Manchester City have demonstrated their superiority over the Red Devils, winning at Old Trafford (0:3) and at the Etihad (3:1).
In recent weeks, City have proven that they can squeeze out wins even in the toughest matches, suggesting that the Citizens should comfortably navigate the crisis-ridden United. The Red Devils have faltered on all fronts this season, and the upcoming final might be Ten Hag's last at the helm. Expecting a victory for the favourites with a -1.5 handicap.
City are riding high this spring and scored three goals in both league encounters with United. Confidently back the Citizens' individual total over two goals.
City, superior in class, will seize control from the outset. Back the Citizens' individual total over 5.5 corners.
United will need to defend extensively, which means fouling against City's star-studded attack is inevitable. Back the Red Devils to lead in yellow cards.
Predicting a 3:0 scoreline in favour of Manchester City.
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