Manchester City are on track to record their lowest Premier League points tally in nine years but still have the opportunity to secure the FA Cup for only the third time during Pep Guardiola’s tenure. This marks City’s third consecutive FA Cup final appearance—they defeated Manchester United in 2023 but fell to them in 2024. While Guardiola acknowledged that the FA Cup is no longer regarded as the top priority, he insisted his team deserves recognition for reaching the final three years running.
Speaking at a press conference, Guardiola said: “That’s the issue. The FA Cup isn’t the first choice anymore. Nothing seems to be enough these days. Of course, we want to win it. Now that we’re here, our aim is to lift the trophy. We’re disappointed with how this season has gone, but I’m confident we’ll put in a strong performance and compete fully. It’s definitely important. You have to be there and win the previous rounds, and we’ve done that many times over the years.”
The final also offers a chance for Kevin De Bruyne to end his City career on a high by securing a 19th trophy with the club before his summer departure. Guardiola did not confirm whether De Bruyne, who was absent from the semi-final win against Nottingham Forest, will start in the final. Looking ahead, City face a critical Premier League match against Bournemouth on Tuesday as they push to finish in the top five and secure Champions League qualification. “I’m only focused on tomorrow’s game,” Guardiola said. “Winning will boost us for the final and the Tuesday match against Bournemouth. I select the team based on how we want to play.”
When asked about reports that City recently met with Bayer Leverkusen forward Florian Wirtz—rumored as a possible De Bruyne replacement—Guardiola declined to comment. “It’s not the right time to discuss that before the FA Cup final. I have 24 exceptional players and I won’t talk about the future right now.”
On the possibility of Rodri returning from injury for the final, Guardiola added: “I’m waiting on the medical team. When they say he’s ready, he will start. We don’t want to risk any setbacks.”
Manchester City performance and stats
It has a even goal difference after scoring 0 goals and conceding 0.
Manchester City will play the next match in FA Cup against Crystal Palace on Saturday 17th of May in London. The prediction is Manchester City winning the match.
