Manchester United saved their best performance of a mediocre season to the very end as they upset Manchester City 2-1 in the FA Cup final on Saturday to deprive their rivals of the double.

With speculation swirling about the future of manager Erik Ten Hag, United ripped up the form book as first-half goals from teenagers Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo proved enough for them to lift the trophy for a 13th time.

They had to endure a second-half siege, however, as City swarmed forward and a late goal by Jeremy Doku set up a nerve-shredding finale before United could celebrate at Wembley.

Premier League champions City, bidding to become the first club to win the double in successive seasons, had been on a 35-match unbeaten run in all competitions in open play.

But they were well below their best in the first half, gifting Garnacho a 30th-minute opener before Mainoo made it 2-0.

City woke up in the second half and Erling Haaland hit the crossbar, but they had to wait until the 87th minute for substitute Doku to halve the deficit.

United hung on, however, to seal the best result of Ten Hag’s two-season reign and qualification for next season’s Europa League.

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final

• City - Ortega, Walker, Stones, Ake, Gvardiol, Rodri, Kovacic, Silva, De Bruyne, Foden, Haaland

• United - Onana, Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Dalot, McTominay, Ambrabat, Mainoo, Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford

• GOAL 29’ - Gvardiol’s error gives Garnacho a simple tap-in to put United ahead (0-1)

• GOAL 39’ - Mainoo finishes brilliant team move to put United two up (0-2)

• GOAL 87’ - Doku beats Onana at the near post to set up big finale (1-2)

• FT - Man United win at Wembley as City beaten by Ten Hag tactics

Manchester City FC 1 - 2 Manchester United FC

Manchester United seize the day to earn a famous FA Cup win as City lose their edge

17:39 , Karl Matchett

In an FA Cup final when new Manchester City history was supposed to be made, and Erik ten Hag’s future supposed to be set, he and Manchester United lift the old trophy by seizing the day.

The new winners were fully immersed in the moment. It may be a moment if history in itself with how United silverware is such a surprise, but it was all the sweeter for that. The celebration of the crowd said enough. Ten Hag has the last word. The Dutch coach relishes a second trophy in two years – especially if this FA Cup final was indeed to be his final match at the club. Belatedly, Ten Hag has at least given the best possible case to keep his job, and maybe change expectations. His team changed all expectations about this match, as well as Pep Guardiola’s recent record. The Manchester City coach was beaten in a domestic cup final for the first time since 2011, to ensure he will not enjoy English football’s first ever double double, to amplify last year’s treble.

Such a record, and recent disparity, ensured United had to think and set up like underdogs. They threw themselves into that, for a 2-1 win over their great rivals that was also a reverse of last year’s final. Amid such history, and the club’s 13th FA Cup, there will be some authentic debate about the extent of a shock this is. United had finished eighth in the league, lower than Wimbledon when they beat Liverpool in 1988 in one of the biggest final shocks of all.

Miguel Delaney’s Wembley match report:

Manchester United seize the day for a famous FA Cup win as City lose their edge

Erik ten Hag belatedly produces a tactical masterclass to land FA Cup - and make it harder to sack him

17:28 , Karl Matchett

So to the most illogical conclusion to a season for the most illogical of teams. This might have been the weirdest thing Manchester United have done; not so much winning the FA Cup, odd as it was, but the opponents, the manner, the context.

Erik ten Hag came dressed for his own funeral, his dark suit and naturally stern demeanour accentuating the sense he would be a witness to his own demise. Instead, it was the end of Manchester City’s double double. They did not make history after all. Ten Hag may yet be consigned to United’s history but if so, what a way to go.

United have arguably never been such underdogs in a final; not against Johan Cruyff’s Barcelona; not against Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona. They did not just win against Guardiola’s City. They won competently. The most disorganised team in the country looked organised. Ten Hag had a gameplan that wasn’t based on chaos. The only hint of ineptitude came when Andre Onana fumbled Jeremy Doku’s shot into his own net. It has been a theme of the season: United are never far away from a Ten Hag signing erring.

They had been a long way away from a Ten Hag masterclass. They got one. It was a reminder of last year when he seemed pragmatic, tactically astute, a manager with the ability to beat the best; even if it only really happened at Old Trafford then. It came from belatedly concluding that his tactics for most of the season were nonsensical.

Because United had a midfield. It isn’t normally news, but this is a team who had tended to press high with a low block, who were stretched from one end of the pitch to the other with a massive gap in between the sections of the side, were suddenly compact.

Richard Jolly at Wembley on the victorious boss:

Ten Hag produces tactical masterclass to land FA Cup - and make it harder to sack him

Erik ten Hag sends message to Manchester United owners

19:15 , Lawrence Ostlere

Erik ten Hag claimed that if Manchester United sack him, he will go to another club and win trophies for them instead – because that is what he has done throughout his career.

Full story:

Sack me now: Erik ten Hag sends message to United hierarchy after FA Cup triumph

Kobbie Mainoo and the box-to-box run that won Manchester United the FA Cup

21:45 , Lawrence Ostlere

Against some of the best players in the world in Manchester City’s midfield, United’s 19-year-old academy graduate shone with a tireless display at Wembley:

Kobbie Mainoo and the box-to-box run that won Manchester United the FA Cup

Guardiola admits he made mistakes in Cup final

20:24 , Lawrence Ostlere

Pep Guardiola admitted he got his tactics wrong as Manchester City’s reign as FA Cup holders was ended by a 2-1 defeat to Manchester United in the final at Wembley.

Six days after securing a record fourth consecutive Premier League title, City were hit with two goals in nine first-half minutes by United to dash their hopes of becoming the first team in English football history to win back-to-back league and cup doubles.

Despite dominating the ball and putting United under sustained pressure for much of the game, Guardiola’s side lacked the attacking edge they have demonstrated during the season and looked out of sorts in the final third, ultimately coming unstuck at the hands of clinical finishing from Erik ten Hag’s team.

“Tactically, it was not good,” said Guardiola. “I was not good today. You plan a game for different positions but it didn’t work.

“Even with that, we arrive two or three times in the final third and byline and made nothing from crosses. They made one goal from one shot and the goal from (Kobbie) Mainoo and no more than that.

“Always when we play against United we have the control, and we created in the second half but we were not able to do it.”

Erik ten Hag defiant amid speculation over his United future

18:45 , Lawrence Ostlere

Fighting talk from the Manchester United manager:

Pep Guardiola refuses to blame Josko Gvardiol for mix up

18:32 , Lawrence Ostlere

A mix-up between goalkeeper Stefan Ortega and defender Josko Gvardiol gifted Garnacho United’s opener in the first half.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said of that incident: “It can happen. Many things happen in a final. They scored two goals and we could not score more.”

Erik ten Hag admits he still doesn’t know his future

18:18 , Lawrence Ostlere

Erik ten Hag admits he does not know what his Manchester United future holds following their FA Cup final win over Manchester City but believes the Red Devils have been unfairly treated by the media.

United’s win comes amid intense speculation about Ten Hag’s future, with reports on Friday suggesting the Dutchman would be sacked regardless of the result at Wembley.

When asked by the BBC if he has been unfairly treated by the media, Ten Hag said: “I think so. The team, me as well, it’s not right.

“We did not have the players. We have seen the same things, it has not always been good football so we had to compromise and we can’t play the football we want to play. In two years since I have been here we’ve had the full squad two, three or four times.

“It was about us to prove a point after a year with so many setbacks, injuries and all the times we had to survive. The team showed so much resilience and I am proud of them.”

Regarding his future at Old Trafford, Ten Hag said: “I don’t know. The only thing I’m doing is preparing my team, developing my team, progressing my team and individual players. To me this is a project. When I came here it was a mess, we know better but we are by far not where we want to be.

“Football is about winning trophies, I want to play the best football and at the end it is about winning games and trophies and that’s the mentality we’ve brought in.”

Sir Jim Ratcliffe speaks

18:04 , Lawrence Ostlere

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has spoken following his club’s stunning FA Cup triumph:

FT - Man City 1-2 Man United

17:20 , Karl Matchett

Fernandes lifts the FA Cup, Ten Hag bounces on the gantry and applauds the fans.

Dalot, Garnacho and Varane are next in line - each had a good game today, did exactly the job needed of them.

Garnacho of course scored that opener in fortunate circumstance but the second, by Mainoo, was excellent.

FT - Man City 1-2 Man United

17:14 , Karl Matchett

Up go Man United now to collect their medals - and the trophy. They are back to within one of the record in the FA Cup.

107 steps to the royal box, United players taking their team and taking the applause from the fans.

FT - Man City 1-2 Man United

17:12 , Karl Matchett

Man City are climbing the Wembley steps to pick up their loser’s medals. United fans jeer them as they go.

“United took their chances, nobody gave them a chance,” says Ian Wright.

“An uncharacteristic performance from City in the first half. It’s been a long season but credit to United’s gameplan,” adds Lescott.

FT - Man City 1-2 Man United

17:04 , Karl Matchett

A huge result for United today and quite possibly for Erik ten Hag in particular - we’ll see if it affects the decision for Ineos over whether to keep the boss in charge.

Some frustration and disappointment for City though, who never quite got their game in gear on the day.

FT - Man City 1-2 Man United

16:57 , Karl Matchett

The whistle goes and United have won the FA Cup!

Enormous roars from the stands, huge celebration on the touchline.

Manchester United deny Man City the double and Ten Hag wins himself a second domestic cup.

90+7’ - City 1-2 United

16:56 , Karl Matchett

Final seconds. City pour forward for one last attack. Rodri gives it to Doku, he crosses deep, Walker strikes from the edge of the box but it’s cleared again one more time.

Hojlund again shows some good hold-up work and wins another foul - yellow card for Alvarez and that’s almost that, surely!

90+4’ - City 1-2 United

16:53 , Karl Matchett

Mason Mount and Victor Lindelof on for the closing minutes in another United double change. McTominay and Garnacho replaced. All defensive set-up now for Erik ten Hag.

Doku and Alvarez try to tiptoe through into the box but United clear and put it long for Hojlund to sprint onto and give them a few seconds of respite.

It’ll keep coming back of course but United only have a few more minutes to hold on. Fernandes shoots from about 45 yards and it’s well off-target.

90’ - City 1-2 United

16:50 , Karl Matchett

Into stoppage time we go and Man City have got seven minutes to find an equaliser.

Akanji gets carried away and spanks one miles over the crossbar. Yellow card for one of City’s backroom staff for appealing too much against something.

United fans furious at how long the injury time is, Guardiola furious it’s not longer. Standard stuff.

GOAL! 87’ - City 1-2 United

16:47 , Karl Matchett

A little over 84,000 in attendance at Wembley today, the announcer tells us. Half of them are just a few minutes plus stoppage time from a big celebration to top a terrible year - the other half have had a great year but will be left deflated today.

Unless......!

GOAL!

From nowhere, Doku spins infield, beats his man and shoots near post - it’s not that fierce of a strike but it beats Onana who might be unsighted and nestles in the near corner! City within a goal with...three left on the clock. They couldn’t, surely?

84’ - City 0-2 United

16:42 , Karl Matchett

It’s getting close to now or never time for City but United are still standing very firm. Fernandes hits a free-kick on target, saved by Ortega; at the other end Doku switches to the right and wins a corner but Onana palms it away to safety.

Garnacho tries to escape on the counter but Walker is yet again across to make the challenge - the right-back has had a good game, but too many further forward haven’t had their finest 80-odd minutes today.

If there’s to be a late comeback, it’s going to be pretty spectacular from this point onwards. United looking...almost comfortable, despite the huge work rate going in.

80’ - City 0-2 United

16:39 , Karl Matchett

Final ten minutes. Doku goes wandering along the edge of the box and takes on one or two before eventually going down under a bit of a strong arm from Amrabat - free-kick given but it looks generous.

Alvarez stands over it, Foden takes instead...into the wall. At the other end Hojlund battles away to beat Akanji and hold up the ball before winning a free-kick.

76’ - City 0-2 United

16:36 , Karl Matchett

Haaland is dragged to the ground on a corner and wants a penalty but nothing doing for him. A couple of corners United just about deal with.

City come forward again regardless - same careful approach, same patient probing work. Walker eventually hits it from range and Onana saves; Haaland goes for the rebound but he’s offside.

72’ - City 0-2 United

16:32 , Karl Matchett

United subs on the way as Martinez’s day is done. He was going to come off a few minutes ago but stayed on, went back down for some treatment and now is walking off...far too slowly for Kyle Walker’s liking who has a bit of an aggresive go at the centre-back and a few others get involved.

United double sub: Evans for Martinez, Hojlund for Rashford.

68’ - City 0-2 United

16:29 , Karl Matchett

Garnacho beats his man and rattles in a low shot - saved by Ortega at the near post. United making sure they maintain an outlet is going to be important.

Doku had a bit of early running at Wan-Bissaka but that has dried up - we’re into the final quarter of the game now and City still need two goals.

64’ - City 0-2 United

16:24 , Karl Matchett

Two big chances for the sub and he fails to hit the target.

Alvarez plays a one-two in the box and lashes a left-foot shot over the bar, just leaning back a bit as he struck it. Then he’s slid into the box behind two defenders and he should score - scuffs another left-footed shot a few yards wide, just couldn’t control it into the corner.

City pushing far more now and the chances are coming but not clear enough.

60’ - City 0-2 United

16:19 , Karl Matchett

Kyle Walker ends a spell of passing right to left and back again by lining up a shot and drilling it at the far post - well tipped around the post by Onana. United very much backs to the wall now with all 11 inside their box at times.

Can City find a breakthrough? Alvarez’s cross reaches Rodri and his cross is clipped behind by Varane.

58’ - City 0-2 United

16:17 , Karl Matchett

Here’s an unexpected change - Kevin De Bruyne replaced before the hour mark. Julian Alvarez comes on for him. Perhaps the Belgian had another knock? Alvarez is quickly involved in a move on the edge of the box which ends in a Rodri cross being cleared. Garnacho sprints away on a long chase but Gvardiol this time deals with it.

55’ - City 0-2 United

16:14 , Karl Matchett

WOODWORK!

McTominay goes down in the box but it’s a stumble rather than a foul. Fernandes tries to keep it alive but City have bodies in to deflect it away from danger.

At the other end Doku feeds Foden who is on the run and gets a touch - but it’s not a clean one and the ball rolls through to Onana.

Seconds later it’s almost the same combo but this time Foden leaves it, Haaland rifles it straight past Onana - onto the crossbar and out! So close.

52’ - City 0-2 United

16:11 , Karl Matchett

Doku gets by Amrabat and turns infield. It keeps going central but United have nine players within the width of their six-yard box, between the penalty spot and the D. It’s crazy congested in there.

Foden and De Bruyne try to sneak through another non-existent gap, United turn them away, Gvardiol fires a shot or pass out of play.

48’ - City 0-2 United

16:08 , Karl Matchett

Rodri goes for goal, presumably, from way out - over the bar despite a scramble from Onana.

The United goalkeeper then invites pressure from Haaland but just about does enough to clear his lines. Not the explosive restart from City we might have expected.

46' - City 0-2 United

16:05 , Karl Matchett

We are back underway - two changes for Man City at the break!

Doku and Akanji on for Ake and Kovacic.

Let’s see how much impact they can have.

HT - City 0-2 United

15:57 , Karl Matchett

“Simple, brilliant, effective.” Plenty of praise from Roy Keane over that second goal for United, talking on ITV.

“This isn’t a performance I’m used to seeing from Man City but you’ve got to give credit for United,” adds Joleon Lescott.

HT - City 0-2 United

15:50 , Karl Matchett

Well, that’s a scoreline at the break that few would have expected. City dominant early on but not creating much, let the game drift...then one error and one brilliant move and United are two goals clear.

Garnacho and Mainoo the scorers and it’s 2-0 to the Red Devils.

45+1’ - City 0-2 United

15:48 , Karl Matchett

Yellow card for Mainoo for a late slide through the back of De Bruyne. He claims he got the ball but certainly only because he went through the midfielder’s heels.

Two minutes added on.

44’ - City 0-2 United

15:46 , Karl Matchett

City trying to up the tempo now as we head towards the break but they’ve left it somewhat late - from comfort to consternation as United strike twice.

Onana has only really had to make one routine save.

GOAL! 39’ - City 0-2 United

15:42 , Karl Matchett

Scenes at Wembley! United are two up! This one’s all of their own making and it’s a great move.

Mainoo to Rashford, he lashes a switch to Garnacho opposite side, he passes to Fernandes on the edge of the box and his glanced pass finds an unmarked Mainoo behind Walker - and side-foots a perfect finish low past Ortega and into the net.

Man City 0, Man United 2. Sensational goal.

38’ - City 0-1 United

15:40 , Karl Matchett

VAR will check this but it looks offside - Garnacho springs past his man from a ball from deep, rolls it across and Rashford taps home, but everyone knows it’s offside this time. Flag up, quick check, on we go.

City have been served enough warnings though.

34’ - City 0-1 United

15:38 , Karl Matchett

Well, now we’ll see if City can raise their game. They’ve had all the ball but few openings - good defensive shape from United so far.

Garnacho made the most of his opportunity handed to him by Gvardiol - quite a bit of that mix-up on Ortega too mind.

De Bruyne and Haaland try to combine on the edge of the box but again it’s a compact midfield and they can’t get through the centre.

GOAL! 29’ - City 0-1 United

15:32 , Karl Matchett

Out of nowhere, the most absurd error and United are ahead! Another simple long ball, Gvardiol has the pace to beat Garnacho - but doesn’t look where his keeper is, nods the ball straight over Ortega who is rushing out and Garnacho has a beautifully easy task to tap in from seven yards out with an empty net! 1-0 to United!

28’ - City 0-0 United

15:30 , Karl Matchett

Kovacic and Foden exchange passes at ridiculous speed to break into the box - but the eventual cutback is behind Haaland and United clear. The striker is then the target once more for a cross from the right but Varane heads away this time.

For a fourth time, Walker beats Rashford for speed and recovers behind a high ball - United’s only real outlet so far, going long down the left!

24’ - City 0-0 United

15:25 , Karl Matchett

Walker is left floored after winning an aerial challenge seconds after Ortega and Kovacic almost played themselves into trouble inside their own box. Haaland then speeds away on the counter and is brought down by Dalot - free-kick given and should probably be a card, but nothing shown.

20’ - City 0-0 United

15:22 , Karl Matchett

Maybe it’s a bit hot at pitch level. De Bruyne now fires a pass out of play, routine one too. United working hard off the ball and waiting for a chance to spring forward in numbers. Mainoo tries to do that now and another pass over the top for Rashford eventually sees Stones have to block McTominay.

16’ - City 0-0 United

15:20 , Karl Matchett

Silva winds infield past two and has a shooting chance - he opts to pass though to Foden, who immediately slides a ball....straight out of play. Gvardiol was on the overlap but it was way ahead of him.

The suited Pep Guardiola offers a grimace on the touchline - his side are in control but haven’t gone through the gears yet.

12’ - City 0-0 United

15:14 , Karl Matchett

Silva crosses to the far post where Foden is arriving - his first-time hit goes into the side-netting on a narrow angle. Haaland has a couple of times looked to jump on or behind Martinez but the deliveries haven’t been on point yet. The Argentine centre-back has to be alert to clear another deep ball now, whacking it clear for a moment’s respite.

8’ - City 0-0 United

15:10 , Karl Matchett

A first few minutes on the ball for the Red Devils now, quite tidy and composed even if deep in their own midfield zone. Onana then hits another pass long over the top for Rashford to speed for, but once more Walker wins the footrace and sees off his rival.

Fernandes then spreads it wide for Garnacho who fires in a shot quickly - it’s on target, but at Ortega who saves comfortably. Moments of promise for the Red Devils all the same.

4’ - City 0-0 United

15:07 , Karl Matchett

High-tempo start and plenty of noise inside Wembley!

City naturally dominating possession early on and United clogging up the centre, forcing City back or wide so far.

De Bruyne and Silva both coming dep early on to try and get on the ball.

1’ - City 0-0 United

15:03 , Karl Matchett

We are underway! A first launched ball forward sees Rashford race towards the City box but Walker has the pace to more than match him and recover. An opening-seconds chance for United fans to roar some hope - then City fans roar as they want a penalty! A cross from the left, Haaland is bumped to ground by Martinez - but not enough for a foul.

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

15:00 , Karl Matchett

Gareth Southgate in the stands for a look at a few people today - one or two might yet get cut who play for these sides; one in particular did not make the provisional squad. How United must hope that Rashford has a response to that today.

Lineups again:

City - Ortega, Walker, Stones, Ake, Gvardiol, Rodri, Kovacic, Silva, De Bruyne, Foden, Haaland

United - Onana, Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Dalot, McTominay, Ambrabat, Mainoo, Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

14:53 , Karl Matchett

The national anthem time. We’re just under ten minutes from kick-off - here’s a historical piece on what the FA Cup used to mean.

What the FA Cup final used to mean

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

14:50 , Karl Matchett

And Erik ten Hag, asked about his centre-back partnership and his own future:

“We’ll see how ready they are. We’ve struggled a long time at centre-half, five or six players have played there. They miss match fitness but they know the job and have to do the job. They’re experienced, they can do it.

“Nothing about me. It’s not about me, it’s the team. It’s a very important game for the club and we’ve focused on that. We don’t talk about my position. It doesn’t affect my preparations. I focus on a winning team.

“I’m only focusing on lifting the trophy.”

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

14:45 , Karl Matchett

Roy Keane speaks on Ten Hag’s criticism today of pundits being negative towards Man United:

“A lot of managers don’t like pundits but that’s part of their journey. We’re ex-players and we look at where they are now - he has to take his medicine. But he’s here in a final and he’s got a chance.

“If Man United win today they’ll get plenty of plaudits. You have to hope the players turn up and put in a really good performance.”

Fellow ITV pundit Karen Carney on Haaland:

“If he’s going to get opportunities he’ll take it. His stats are phenomenal (90 in 97 for Man City).United’s centre-backs have to get tight and aggressive.

“They’ve played 20 minutes the other day but this is Manchester City. They might not be up to speed but they are experienced. It’s not ideal when you chop and change centre-backs.”

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

14:39 , Karl Matchett

Pep Guardiola speaking ahead of kick-off:

“We never played a City-United final before and now we’ve done it two years in a row. The universe wanted it,” he said.

“The mood has been really good the last few days but it’s back to business, we have to reset, the league has nothing to do with the final. The final is one game.

“It was a difficult choice today. Some players I thought could play but at the end it’s tough. All the defenders played really well recently.”

Manchester City are the best – but a cloud hangs over Pep Guardiola’s era of dominance

14:35 , Karl Matchett

On a day when any tension was largely illusory, there was considerable symbolism. Arsenal lifted themselves to the 89 points that were required last season, only for Manchester City to go that bit further. They easily beat West Ham United to make it 91 points, illustrating how they always raise the bar.

Many point to this as a sign of the Premier League’s supposed competitiveness, but it really just shows how difficult it is to even keep pace with the apparently perpetual champions. City force teams to go the distance only to then go that bit further themselves. That comes from a combination of maybe the greatest manager of all time overseeing a squad and infrastructure as he idealises it, to now go further than anyone has before.

City have become the first team in English history to win four successive league titles and the first with as many as six in seven years. That’s all through returns of points (average 91.1), wins (average 29) and trophies (50 per cent of those available) that are superior to any previous club over a spell so long. It is an unprecedented level of domination, now akin to what has recently been seen in Ligue 1 or the Bundesliga.

There is of course, another number hanging over that, which played into a more potent piece of symbolism on the day. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters was not at Manchester City for their win, and that ensured there were no comments about the competition’s most senior figure again handing another Premier League title trophy to the club it has been investigating for so long.

Miguel Delaney on City’s dominance:

A cloud hangs over Manchester City and Pep Guardiola’s era of dominance

Former defender says United should stick with Ten Hag

14:30 , Karl Matchett

Manchester United may face an almost impossible task against rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final, but the club should not ditch manager Erik ten Hag next season, according to former full-back Paul Parker.

United head to Wembley very much the underdogs as neighbours City look to complete another Double following their successful Premier League title defence.

Having finished down in eighth place – a lowest ever Premier League finish – and after crashing out of Europe before Christmas, the spotlight is on Ten Hag’s future.

Parker joined United from QPR in the summer of 1991, going on to win two Premier League titles and also the 1994 FA Cup final as part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad.

The 60-year-old feels despite the odds now being stacked against his old club to lift more silverware at Wembley on Saturday, there could just yet be a chink in City’s armour.

Paul Parker urges Manchester United to keep faith with Erik ten Hag

Pep Guardiola admits he is ‘closer to leaving’ Manchester City after latest Premier League title

14:25 , Karl Matchett

Pep Guardiola hinted he could extend his contract at Manchester City after they became the first team to win four consecutive English titles but also cast doubt on his future as he described himself as “closer to leaving” the club.

The Catalan has one year left on his contract, which was signed in 2022, and suggested he might be willing to discuss an extended deal as he spoke about how he found the motivation to target new achievements.

Guardiola hailed a sixth title in seven seasons as an “crazy” achievement that he would never have thought possible when he arrived after a 3-1 win over West Ham made City champions again.

He stayed at Barcelona for four years and Bayern Munich for three and said he is closer to leaving City than staying, but still galvanised by the chance to make history. City could become the first team in English football history to win back-to-back doubles today when they face Manchester United in the FA Cup final and while he believed he had won all there was to win last year, he then found new targets.

Pep Guardiola admits he is ‘closer to leaving’ Manchester City after latest title

Is Man City vs Manchester United on TV? How to watch FA Cup Final

14:17 , Karl Matchett

Pep Guardiola’s jubilant Manchester City side will look to complete the domestic double on Saturday as they face local rivals Manchester United in the FA Cup Final at Wembley.

The Spaniard led his team to their fourth successive Premier League title last week, with an enthralling season culminating in a 2-1 win at home to West Ham on the final day, marking another successful league campaign for the Cityzens. And City will be looking for the third FA Cup win of Guardiola’s tenure as they face a struggling Manchester United side in a repeat of last season’s final.

Erik ten Hag’s team finished eighth in the Premier League, and will be banking on a win in this competition to scrape at least one positive out of what has been a dismal season overall.

Dozens of rumours are circulating regarding ten Hag’s future, and with new part-owners Ineos bringing plenty of personnel changes, this game could prove a defining moment in the Dutchman’s tenure. Here’s everything you need to know.

Is Man City vs Manchester United on TV? Hhow to watch FA Cup Final

Erik ten Hag fires back at Manchester United critics in stunning interview before FA Cup final

14:10 , Karl Matchett

Erik ten Hag fired back at his critics on the eve of the FA Cup final, accusing TV pundits of attacking him “to make themselves look better”.

The Manchester United manager’s job hangs in the balance going into the match against Premier League champions Manchester City at Wembley on Saturday, with reports suggesting the club’s new hierarchy – led by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe – is considering replacements for Ten Hag such as Thomas Tuchel and Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna.

In an interview with Dutch publication VI, Ten Hag admitted the season had been “crap” as he led United to eighth place, their worst ever Premier League finish. But he was irked by the criticism he has received along the way, insisting the club is “not ready” to meet sky-high expectations.

United boss’ quotes here:

Erik ten Hag fires back at critics in stunning interview before FA Cup final

FA Cup final team news confirmed - Man City vs Man United

14:02 , Karl Matchett

CONFIRMED LINEUPS!

Man City: Ortega, Walker, Stones, Ake, Gvardiol, Rodri, Kovacic, De Bruyne, Foden, Silva, Haaland

Man United: Onana, Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Dalot, Amrabat, McTominay, Mainoo, Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

13:45 , Karl Matchett

TEAM NEWS: Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson will miss the final due to a fractured eye socket he suffered against Tottenham earlier this month.

Pep Guardiola has no other fresh injury concerns before the final, with no new injuries picked up during the last week’s win against West Ham.

Conversely, Erik ten Hag is dealing with several injuries, both long-term and short-term, ahead of the game. In his Thursday press conference, the Dutchman confirmed that Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia will all definitely miss the match.

Victor Lindelof, Mason Mount and Anthony Martial have all trained this week and could be part of the 20-man squad, with Marcus Rashford, Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez also looking likely to feature.

Chris Wilson’s Predicted line-ups

Manchester City predicted XI: Ortega; Walker, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri, Kovacic, Silva, De Bruyne, Foden; Haaland

Manchester United predicted XI: Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Dalot; Casemiro, Mainoo; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund

Confirmed lineups will be available soon...

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

13:38 , Karl Matchett

Latest odds for today on a few markets for the final:

FT result

City win 6/17

Draw 21/4

United 9/1

First goalscorer

Haaland 11/4

Foden 6/1

Alvarez 8/1

Bobb 10/1

De Bruyne 11/1

Hojlund 12/1

Score a hattrick

Haaland 12/1

Foden 50/1

To be sent off

Maguire 28/1

Amrabat 28/1

L Martinez 33/1

Casemiro 33/1

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

13:30 , Karl Matchett

There aren’t too many at Old Trafford who, as it stands, will look back on this season fondly. Yet there is a still smaller group of Manchester United players: those who have been fit for all of it.

Erik ten Hag’s results are wildly inconsistent but he shows consistency in citing their injuries. United have had more than 60; many lasting longer than originally forecast, sometimes taking out most or all of the players from one position. It got to the stage where even the seemingly indestructible Bruno Fernandes missed a couple of games.

It leaves a trio as the last men standing: only goalkeeper Andre Onana, Alejandro Garnacho and Diogo Dalot have not been injured. The full-back has leapfrogged the ubiquitous Fernandes to play the most minutes among outfield players, some 4,274. He has only sat out two of United’s 51 matches: when he was suspended at West Ham in December, following his dismissal for dissent at Anfield, and when he was an unused substitute on the opening night against Wolves. He has started 47 of the last 49, including 25 in a row. He has not missed a minute since January.

How Diogo Dalot became United’s unexpected exception:

How Diogo Dalot became Manchester United’s unlikely but welcome exception

Erik ten Hag reveals Manchester United talks over future and the ‘luxury problem’ for FA Cup final

13:20 , Karl Matchett

Erik ten Hag has insisted he has no concerns about his future and has said he will go on a hard-earned holiday on Sunday – after already holding talks with Manchester United’s owners to review what he admitted was a “horrible” season.

The Dutchman has shrugged off questions if Saturday’s FA Cup final will be his final game in charge by revealing he has sat down with the new hierarchy at Old Trafford to discuss what went wrong this year.

“We already did and on Sunday I will go on holiday,” he said. “I think I deserve it.”

Ten Hag is adamant United have improved considerably on his watch, despite recording their lowest-ever Premier League finish, and is looking forward to a break.

Erik ten Hag reveals Man Utd talks and ‘luxury problem’ for FA Cup final

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

13:10 , Karl Matchett

The cliché is that footballers take each game as it comes. Kyle Walker isn’t, even though his next match could see him join the club of FA Cup-winning captains. Instead, a man with his eye on history is also already targeting a far greater achievement. “Why can’t we do five in a row?” asked the Manchester City skipper.

No one had won four consecutive English league titles until Pep Guardiola’s team beat West Ham last week. Now another unique feat beckons: there have been some 13 previous doubles of the top-flight crown and the FA Cup, but none in successive seasons. Walker has been part of two double-winning teams in 2018-19 and 2022-23, but he is fuelled by the chance to do something no previous side had ever accomplished.

“The motivation speaks for itself,” he said. “To be the first team to do the double-double, the first team to win four in a row, the first team since Manchester United to do the treble; we keep knocking down these hurdles and this is another that we need to knock down. But it’s against our rivals who live in the same city and are going to want to rain on our parade.”

The historic achievement motivating Kyle Walker at Manchester City:

The historic achievement motivating Kyle Walker at Manchester City

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

13:00 , Karl Matchett

Kobbie Mainoo is learning about the trappings of fame. “When I try to go to the corner shop I get a bit more attention,” said the breakout star of Manchester United’s season. And if there was something wonderfully down-to-earth about the image, there is also the probability that Mainoo may not be spending too much time at the corner shop too often in the future. He is more likely to be seen in the United and England midfields.

For now, anyway, he has not experienced the downsides of his sudden celebrity, even though his native Stockport is Manchester City territory. “Growing up, everyone around me was a City fan, there were only a few of us who had to fight as United fans,” Mainoo recalled.

Maybe an FA Cup final will come down to a clash of Stockport’s finest, Phil Foden against Mainoo. If the United man is outnumbered in his home town, perhaps the friendly reception he gets there is because of the heart-warming nature of his rise, the old-fashioned idea of a likeable local breaking through. “People ask for pictures,” he said. “It’s nice. I mean, I grew up here, so to take pictures, is the least I can do. I remember being a kid and wanting pictures with players when I was younger.”

Kobbie Mainoo interview:

Kobbie Mainoo discusses Spanish lessons and how life has changed after dream season

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

12:50 , Karl Matchett

Andre Onana felt like he fell from being the best goalkeeper in the world during a nightmare, error-ridden start at Manchester United – and has backed misfiring Marcus Rashford to rebound from his own struggles.

Things appeared on the up for the Red Devils as they won the Carabao Cup, finished third in the Premier League and reached the FA Cup final during a promising first campaign under Erik ten Hag.

Onana was among those brought in over the summer to take United onto another level but things have gone awry in an injury-hit season in which they limped home eighth.

The FA Cup final against Manchester City offers the chance to end a disappointing campaign on a high on Saturday, when their goalkeeper is sure to play a key role at the end of a campaign he started so poorly.

Andre Onana backs Marcus Rashford to hit back after overcoming his own struggles

The poisonous problem that could spark the Premier League’s downfall

12:40 , Karl Matchett

By the time the title was confirmed, none of the other 19 Premier League clubs felt like extending public congratulations to Manchester City. There were no “classy touches” on the social media pages. That points to how that world has changed, but also at a tension in the boardrooms that is far more perceptible than any on the pitch. City won all of their last nine games with relative ease.

The Premier League chief executive, Richard Masters, didn’t even attend the decisive title match. He was instead at Arsenal, ensuring this season didn’t end with the competition’s senior figure handing over the trophy to the club they have been investigating for more than five years. Early suggestions from the broadcasters are meanwhile that one of the most watched events of the day was Jurgen Klopp’s farewell, which certainly had more viewers than that trophy lift.

These are unexpectedly fitting endings for the entire 2023-24 season, since there has never been a campaign where it felt like so many of the most important developments were away from the pitch. That investigation into the champions is ongoing, with the Premier League so conscious of “confidentiality” that Masters wouldn’t even confirm the date of its hearing. This was all as two other clubs were punished for breaches of the competition’s financial rules, in Everton and Nottingham Forest, with points totals changing three times.

That created the farcical precedent of the table not necessarily telling the full story at given moments. It’s a situation that can be poisonous for sport, since the basic social contract here is that supporters trust what they’re seeing on the pitch. There was instead constantly some controversy to divert the eyes.

The poisonous problem that could spark the Premier League’s downfall

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

12:30 , Karl Matchett

Erik ten Hag says Manchester United must “do everything” to repay the “best fans in the world” by lifting the FA Cup after his club suffered their worst Premier League finish.

The 20-time English champions signed off a dismal top-flight campaign with a 2-0 win at Brighton but finished in eighth place – their lowest final position since coming 13th in the old first division under Sir Alex Ferguson in 1990.

Qualification for Europe next season – and potentially the future of under-fire manager Ten Hag – is now reliant on beating rivals Manchester City in next weekend’s Wembley final.

We have to do everything to give fans a trophy – Erik ten Hag

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

12:20 , Karl Matchett

The two managers preparing their teams for Saturday’s FA Cup final could scarcely be doing so under more polarised circumstances.

With Manchester City enjoying a period of success unprecedented in English football, United are weathering a storm so fierce it may not subside even if they upset the odds and beat their rivals at Wembley.

Here, we look at the contrasting situations of the managers: Who comes out on top, Pep or Ten Hag?

Pep Guardiola v Erik ten Hag – Who will come out on top in the FA Cup final?

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

12:10 , Karl Matchett

When Marcus Rashford was told that he wouldn’t be in the Euro 2024 squad the day before the announcement, there was no massive fury. There was only an attempt to look at the positives. The feeling around the Manchester United player’s entourage is that he needs a break.

There’s still one big game to come, of course, that could yet serve to make a point. Rashford may need a break, sure, but he will surely be personally motivated enough to show England and Gareth Southgate what they’ll be missing in Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City. Many people might be expecting just one result in that showpiece, but it could yet come down to one man.

The feeling around United is that Rashford is still the player who can pop up with a world-class moment no matter his form, which isn’t necessarily true of those selected ahead of him for England. He did it in his very last match against City, with that brilliant strike from distance that ended up as one of the goals of the season.

There is also the motivation to salvage United’s season but that’s where this almost gets more complicated than trying to beat Pep Guardiola’s side.

Rashford’s most important moment with a shot at redemption:

Marcus Rashford faces his most important moment with a shot at redemption

Manchester United’s only hope is magic of the FA Cup in most one-sided meeting of rivals

12:00 , Karl Matchett

After a season where Manchester United’s tactical system has been constantly debated, Erik ten Hag doesn’t have the luxury of choice ahead of the final game, which could well be his last game. The Dutch coach has to prepare for underdog football in Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City. This is not one for ideology. Pretty much everyone has to compromise when facing Pep Guardiola, but there’s more to that here.

Maybe the greatest uncertainty about the game is just how much of an underdog United are. It’s difficult to think of a final between two major clubs where there has felt such an extreme chasm. The gap is such that the dynamic of this game is much more akin to the Arsenal-Hull City final of 2014 than even last year’s meeting between the same two Manchester clubs.

It is a feeling only accentuated by how they have both immediately returned to the final, with the same successive pairing happening for only the second time in history, but the gap has grown since. City have only strengthened their hold over the English game, as they also aim for the country’s first ever double-double. That was a feat that not even Sir Alex Ferguson managed. The closest he went was doubles in 1994 and 1996, albeit with two runners-up in between. Guardiola can go way beyond that, by adding the FA Cup to this season’s Premier League, on top of last season’s treble.

Chief Football Writer Miguel Delaney’s big match preview:

Man United’s only hope is magic of the FA Cup in one-sided meeting of rivals

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

11:48 , Karl Matchett

England left back Luke Shaw is a major injury doubt ahead of Euro 2024 with Gareth Southgate admitting the Manchester United defender is a “long shot” to be fit for the tournament.

Shaw has been sidelined since February with a muscle injury and his potential absence leaves Southgate facing an injury crisis at left-back, with Ben Chilwell, who is also injured, left out of England’s 33-player training squad.

But Shaw is England’s first choice at left-back and has started there at the past two major tournaments, with Southgate admitting he will give the Manchester United defender every chance to make the tournament.

He is not, of course, available to United today.

Luke Shaw a ‘long shot’ for Euro 2024 as England face defensive injury crisis

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

11:36 , Karl Matchett

Kyle Walker does not believe many teams would be capable of matching Manchester City’s historic haul of four successive Premier League titles.

City pipped Arsenal to yet another league crown on Sunday to set a new record, and could add the FA Cup to their trophy collection this weekend as they look to complete back-to-back doubles.

Asked if Pep Guardiola’s men get the credit they deserve, 33-year-old Walker told Sky Sports: “I don’t think we’re not appreciated, I think we are and we get the plaudits that we rightly deserve.

“But I think to do what we’ve done year in, year out, I don’t think many teams would be able to do that, especially in this Premier League.”

More from Walker:

Kyle Walker: Manchester City’s four successive titles unlikely to be matched

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

11:24 , Karl Matchett

Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City’s “obvious” recent superiority over arch-rivals Manchester United will count for nothing in the FA Cup final.

City, fresh from celebrating their historic fourth successive Premier League title, face a United side sore from finishing way back in eighth place at Wembley on Saturday.

Chasing back-to-back domestic doubles and a repeat victory over United after last season’s success, City are overwhelming favourites.

Yet Guardiola is taking nothing for granted.

Man City’s superiority over Man United counts for nothing in FA Cup final: Guardiola

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

11:12 , Karl Matchett

Andre Onana praised under-fire Erik ten Hag amid increased talk that Saturday’s FA Cup final will be the Manchester United manager’s last match in charge.

An eye-watering injury list has been compounded by underperforming players and poor decision-making in what has been a campaign to forget for all connected with the Old Trafford club.

United bowed out of Europe before Christmas and stumbled home in eighth place – their lowest finish of the Premier League era – to heap pressure on Ten Hag as Ineos consider how to take the club back to the top.

Andre Onana hails Erik ten Hag amid increased talk over Man Utd manager’s future

Manchester United enter Erik’s Last Stand ahead of inevitable summer of change

11:00 , Karl Matchett

A game that could have completed Jurgen Klopp’s last dance may instead prove Erik ten Hag’s last chance. The FA Cup final long promised an end-point for the manager of one of England’s two biggest clubs. But it is Manchester United who face Manchester City at Wembley; eliminating Liverpool in a seminal quarter-final is one reason why there is a repeat of the 2023 final, why Ineos’ verdict on Ten Hag has been postponed, why United’s season could go down as a complete failure or a troubled year that ends on a high.

“Every season you review it and then we will see where we are in the project and the things that we have to change,” said Ten Hag. For many, the question of change revolves around the dugout.

It’s been a week in which Mauricio Pochettino emerged as a potential successor, following his dismissal by Chelsea, and where interest from Stamford Bridge in Kieran McKenna may add another dimension to United’s potential hunt. The spectres of Graham Potter and Gareth Southgate, who both have their admirers among the new United hierarchy, have loomed large for months. But Ten Hag has ignored them.

If nothing else, the Dutchman is good at message discipline. “I am just focusing on this game as I do on every game,” he said, shrugging off talk that, like Louis van Gaal, he could bid farewell to United in an FA Cup final, even if it is won. Yet there are times when his chosen messages seem retrofitted.

Richard Jolly’s feature on what might be the Man United boss’ final game in charge:

Man United enter Erik’s Last Stand ahead of inevitable summer of change

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

10:48 , Karl Matchett

Pep Guardiola believes Erik ten Hag will be in trouble if Manchester United don’t win the FA Cup – even though he feels the problems at Old Trafford are not caused by the manager.

The Manchester City manager came to the defence of his beleaguered counterpart, who could be at risk of being sacked after a traumatic season, by saying Ten Hag has suffered because of United’s extensive injury list.

United recorded their lowest-ever Premier League finish by coming eighth, while crashing out of the Champions League in the group stage, and could lose a second consecutive FA Cup final to City.

But Guardiola, who knows Ten Hag from their time together at Bayern Munich, objected to the culture where managers are branded failures if they don’t claim silverware by arguing that only one team can win but that others can still do well.

Pep Guardiola defends Erik ten Hag and reveals explanation for Man Utd struggles

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

10:36 , Karl Matchett

Rodri insists Manchester City beat out Arsenal in the Premier League title due to their superior “mentality”, while criticising Mikel Arteta’s side for their lack of ambition when facing off at the Etihad Stadium.

The Spanish midfielder clinched victory for the champions against West Ham on Sunday to secure a fourth-successive title and finish two points clear of the Gunners.

And Rodri explained how City’s “mentality” proved decisive in a gripping title race against Arsenal.

Rodri goads Arsenal over crucial title race mistake

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

10:24 , Karl Matchett

Marcus Rashford was left out of England’s provisional squad for Euro 2024 following a turbulent season at Manchester United. Here, we look at what has gone wrong for the forward in recent months, including form and how his 2023/24 campaign progressed following a free-scoring season last time.

What went wrong for Marcus Rashford to lead to England Euro squad omission?

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

10:12 , Karl Matchett

As for United, well they’ve definitely had a far easier passage overall, but they’ve also come through one big test...and rode their luck on probably three occasions. They came close to an exit more than once but somehow found a way to their 22nd final - an FA Cup record.

Man United’s route to the FA Cup final:

3rd round - Wigan 0 United 2 (Dalot, Fernandes)

4th round - Newport 2 United 4 (Fernandes, Mainoo, Antony, Hojlund)

5th round - Nottingham Forest 0 United 1 (Casemiro)

QF - United 4 Liverpool 3 (AET) (McTominay, Antony, Rashford, Diallo)

SF - Coventry 3 United 3 (AET, 2-4 on pens) (McTominay, Maguire, Fernandes)

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

10:00 , Karl Matchett

It certainly hasn’t been plain sailing for Pep’s team to reach Wembley this year - though they’ve had a couple of blowout wins and beat a couple of potential rivals without conceding along the way.

Man City’s route to the FA Cup final:

3rd round - City 5 Huddersfield 0 (Foden 2, Alvarez, Doku, Jackson OG)

4th round - Spurs 0 City 1 (Ake)

5th round - Luton 2 City 6 (Haaland 5, Kovacic)

QF - City 2 Newcastle 0 (Silva 2)

SF - City 1 Chelsea 0 (Silva)

Man City vs Man United - FA Cup final LIVE

09:45 , Karl Matchett

As Manchester City celebrated their historic fourth successive Premier League title – and sixth in seven years – it is remarkable to think some considered them third favourites just last month.

April began with City having just been held to a goalless draw by Arsenal, a result which not only cost them the chance to leapfrog the Gunners, but left Liverpool standing alone at the top.

Yet as the Merseysiders have learned only too well in recent years, this is not a City side that should ever be doubted.

Manchester City: The serial Premier League winners who don’t do twists and turns

Manchester United are desperate for a summer clearout – but again face one major problem

09:30 , Karl Matchett

The lap of honour had reached the Stretford End. Or perhaps it was more of a lap of apology, given the season they were marking. But a chorus broke out as Manchester United’s players neared the tunnel: “Erik ten Hag’s red-and-white army.” It has been heard before but perhaps the timing supported the beleaguered manager’s case that the fans are still on his side. Or maybe it simply reflected the pride of a United fanbase who make a point of sticking by their managers.

Ten Hag hopes he will be back next year though it is harder to say he deserves to be. For many, though, it was a last end-of-season trudge around the Old Trafford pitch. That tendency towards loyalty from the match-going United was shown by the chants of “Tony Martial scores again”. Again? Anthony Martial has two goals this season. He has gone five months without an appearance. He has 90 goals for United but an increasingly mercurial figure has outstayed his welcome.

There is a noble air to Raphael Varane. His farewell felt dignified and sad, the Frenchman sitting in the middle of an empty pitch to take it all in, even if it was typical that the injured Varane had missed the match. The World Cup winner cost £41m, will leave on a free transfer and was paid huge wages. Only one of his three seasons at Old Trafford was a success, either for him or the team, but a serial Champions League winner was unable to replicate his success at Real Madrid in Manchester. Even a player of his distinction was caught up in the chaos.

Man Utd are desperate for a summer clearout – but face one major problem

Arsenal and Liverpool’s task will only get harder - they must learn from Man City’s priceless quality

09:15 , Karl Matchett

Johnny Marr was next to Noel Gallagher at the Etihad Stadium but one of the musical throwbacks came to an earlier era. During the pitch invasion at the final whistle, one banner described Manchester City as “the Four Tops”. Motown got its name from the Motor City; if football has become Manchester’s major industry now, City, champions a record four times in a row, are its market leader.

As Manchester United recorded their lowest-ever Premier League finish, City completed an achievement beyond even Sir Alex Ferguson’s finest teams; or, for that matter, anyone else from Preston North End’s 1889 Invincibles to Jurgen Klopp’s barnstorming 21st-century Liverpool side.

City had Paul Dickov present the trophy, a quarter of a century on from his injury-time equaliser in the third-tier play-off final. They know where they came from.

Title rival’s task will only get harder - they must learn from Man City’s quality

The legacy of Pep Guardiola’s Man City – and why they may never be truly loved

09:00 , Jack Rathborn

Pep Guardiola is on the brink of history. “One game, destiny in our hands,” he said, relishing the scenario rather than deflecting attention from it. A fourth consecutive English title would be an unparalleled achievement. It would also be a very popular one; within the Manchester City fanbase, anyway.

And in the wider world? “F***, I don’t know,” replied a dismissive Guardiola. “I don’t go knocking on doors asking people what they think. I don’t know, honestly.”

And if he is sufficiently busy that he scarcely had time to double up as a pollster, canvassing opinions, if many people in football are insulated from the outside world, there is a broader question of how City are viewed. As a great team? Definitely, and they will be even if they lose to West Ham on Sunday and Arsenal supplant them at the top of the table. As the best side in Europe? They were last season but, however often they are described as such, that status surely belongs with either the relentless Real Madrid or even Xabi Alonso’s unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen, based on the evidence of the current campaign. As a side whose achievements often come with a caveat? For now, certainly, given that 115 Premier League charges still hang over City. That said, if the eventual verdict is that City breached regulations for years to create the conditions for their current era of dominance, the fundamental fault for that was not committed by Guardiola or his players.

The legacy of Guardiola’s Man City – and why they may never be loved

Manchester United documentary ‘99 is an exquisite hit of nostalgia to distract from club’s present woes

08:45 , Karl Matchett

There was a time when the period dramas television executives rushed to commission involved the writings of Jane Austen, not the musings of Phil Neville. Though that time was the 1990s, a decade that has led to a growth industry in Manchester United nostalgia. Which, as the last quarter of a century has taken them from “football, bloody hell” to “football, bloody mess”, may be unsurprising. The past is infinitely preferable to the present for them.

After Netflix’s David Beckham documentary comes Amazon’s ’99; made by the same production company, covering some of the same ground, with many of the same faces; most of the stories are familiar, the footage well-worn but still spine-tingling. United’s greatest season is ripe for revisiting, even if only to distract them from one of their worst campaigns anyone under 40 can remember. It has created various legacies. There was a story last week that the criticisms of the military-industrial complex of high-profile Old Trafford old boys may be deterring prospective candidates from wanting to manage the club.

Man Utd documentary ‘99 is a hit of nostalgia that distracts from club’s present woes

Erik ten Hag reveals Marcus Rashford motivation and offers Harry Maguire update

08:30 , Jack Rathborn

Erik ten Hag believes Marcus Rashford can use his omission from England’s Euro 2024 squad as fuel to power him on in the FA Cup final and to spur him back to scoring form with Manchester United.

Rashford, who has been in England’s squad for the last four major tournaments, was dropped by Gareth Southgate when he named a 33-man training squad, with his international manager saying other attackers had enjoyed better seasons.

The 26-year-old has had a troubled season with United, scoring only eight goals and failing to find the net in his last eight appearances and may only be on the bench against Manchester City at Wembley on Saturday.

But Ten Hag is tipping Rashford, who has scored 131 goals in 401 games for United, to return to form in the future, saying: “He looks good and that is the career with ups and downs so a down can also be fuel, that is what I see in training. He will be highly motivated, he is highly talented. He has already a big career. I am sure he will get over this and get even more goals.”

Erik ten Hag reveals Marcus Rashford motivation and offers Harry Maguire update

Erik ten Hag dismisses speculation over Man Utd future to focus on FA Cup final

08:20 , Jack Rathborn

“I have nothing to say. I am just focusing on the job I have to do and that is first win the game on Saturday and then we are in the project. Keep going in the project.”

Pushed on how he wants his time at United to be judged, Ten Hag added: “I came here to win trophies.

“Saturday I have the next opportunity and we earned this opportunity as a team and now we have to go for it.

“At the same time, in the last two years, of course after every season you review it and then we will see where we are in the project and things we have to change.

“We spoke lately about it. Underneath there are very good things – players coming up, players developing, values coming up.

“And, at the same time, we have on Saturday a big opportunity to win the next trophy.”

FA Cup final

08:09 , The Independent

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Man Utd’s only hope is FA Cup magic in one-sided meeting of rivals

08:00 , Karl Matchett

After a season where Manchester United’s tactical system has been constantly debated, Erik ten Hag doesn’t have the luxury of choice ahead of the final game, which could well be his last game. The Dutch coach has to prepare for underdog football in Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City. This is not one for ideology. Pretty much everyone has to compromise when facing Pep Guardiola, but there’s more to that here.

Maybe the greatest uncertainty about the game is just how much of an underdog United are. It’s difficult to think of a final between two major clubs where there has felt such an extreme chasm. The gap is such that the dynamic of this game is much more akin to the Arsenal-Hull City final of 2014 than even last year’s meeting between the same two Manchester clubs.

It is a feeling only accentuated by how they have both immediately returned to the final, with the same successive pairing happening for only the second time in history, but the gap has grown since. City have only strengthened their hold over the English game, as they also aim for the country’s first ever double-double. That was a feat that not even Sir Alex Ferguson managed. The closest he went was doubles in 1994 and 1996, albeit with two runners-up in between. Guardiola can go way beyond that, by adding the FA Cup to this season’s Premier League, on top of last season’s treble.

It is already unprecedented dominance, that has provoked bigger questions for the English game.

Miguel Delaney’s FA Cup final preview:

Man United’s only hope is magic of the FA Cup in one-sided meeting of rivals

How Diogo Dalot became Manchester United’s unlikely but welcome exception

Thursday 23 May 2024 17:08 , Jack Rathborn

There aren’t too many at Old Trafford who, as it stands, will look back on this season fondly. Yet there is a still smaller group of Manchester United players: those who have been fit for all of it.

Erik ten Hag’s results are wildly inconsistent but he shows consistency in citing their injuries. United have had more than 60; many lasting longer than originally forecast, sometimes taking out most or all of the players from one position. It got to the stage where even the seemingly indestructible Bruno Fernandes missed a couple of games.

It leaves a trio as the last men standing: only goalkeeper Andre Onana, Alejandro Garnacho and Diogo Dalot have not been injured. The full-back has leapfrogged the ubiquitous Fernandes to play the most minutes among outfield players, some 4,274. He has only sat out two of United’s 51 matches: when he was suspended at West Ham in December, following his dismissal for dissent at Anfield, and when he was an unused substitute on the opening night against Wolves. He has started 47 of the last 49, including 25 in a row. He has not missed a minute since January.

How Diogo Dalot became Manchester United’s unlikely but welcome exception