The stage is set for one of the most mouth-watering FA Cup finals in recent memory. On Saturday, June 3, 2023, Wembley Stadium will host a historic all-Manchester showdown as Manchester City and Manchester United lock horns for the famous old trophy. It’s the first time these fierce rivals have ever met in an FA Cup final, and with City chasing a potential treble and United eyeing a domestic cup double, the stakes could hardly be higher.

Route to the Final

Manchester City have swept through the competition with their trademark dominance. Pep Guardiola’s side began their journey by dispatching Chelsea 4–0 at the Etihad, before comfortably beating Arsenal 1–0 in a heavyweight fourth-round clash. Wins over Bristol City (3–0) and Burnley (6–0) underlined their strength in depth, while a clinical 3–0 victory over Sheffield United in the semi-finals booked their ticket to Wembley.

Manchester United, meanwhile, have shown grit and resilience on their path to the final. Erik ten Hag’s men edged past Everton 3–1 in the third round before overcoming Reading 3–1 and a spirited West Ham 3–1. A tense quarter-final against Fulham ended 3–1 after a dramatic turnaround, and a penalty shootout win over Brighton (after a 0–0 draw) in the semi-final sealed their date with destiny.

Team News

City arrive at Wembley with few injury concerns. Kevin De Bruyne, who missed a league match in the run-in, is expected to be fit, while Jack Grealish and Ruben Dias are also likely to return after minor knocks. Guardiola may rotate slightly with the Champions League final looming, but expect a strong starting XI featuring goal machine Erling Haaland.

For United, the major concern is the fitness of Anthony Martial, who suffered a hamstring injury in the build-up. Marcus Rashford is fit and firing, while Bruno Fernandes will look to pull the strings in midfield. Lisandro Martínez remains sidelined with a foot injury, and defensive stalwart Raphaël Varane faces a late fitness test.

Recent Form

City are in irresistible form, having wrapped up the Premier League title and dismantling opponents with their fluid attacking football. A 12-match unbeaten run across all competitions has them brimming with confidence as they chase an unprecedented treble.

United, meanwhile, finished their league campaign strongly, securing a top-four finish and a return to the Champions League. Their Carabao Cup triumph earlier this season has already delivered silverware, and they’ll be eager to spoil their neighbour’s treble dreams.

Players to Watch

• Erling Haaland (Man City) – The Norwegian striker has shattered scoring records in his debut Premier League season. His power, movement, and finishing make him the ultimate big-game threat.
• Kevin De Bruyne (Man City) – City’s creative heartbeat. If he finds space, United’s defence could be in for a long afternoon.
• Marcus Rashford (Man United) – United’s talisman and top scorer. His pace and directness will be key to exploiting City’s high line.
• Casemiro (Man United) – The experienced midfielder will need to break up City’s attacks and provide leadership in the centre of the park.

Prediction

This final has all the ingredients of a classic: local pride, high stakes, and world-class talent on both sides. United will be motivated to deny City their treble dream, but Guardiola’s team have been a relentless machine this season. Expect United to put up a fight, but City’s firepower and control may prove too much.

Prediction: Manchester City 2–1 Manchester United