Manchester United concluded a disappointing season on a high note as Erik ten Hag, amidst speculation about his future, led the team to a surprising FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. The Dutchman's job was under scrutiny following reports suggesting he might be dismissed regardless of the match's outcome. However, United put the rumors aside as young talents Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo scored to secure a 2-1 win, despite a late goal from City's substitute Jeremy Doku.
This win marked Ten Hag's second trophy in two seasons, but it remains to be seen if this and Europa League qualification will satisfy the ambitious Ineos group, especially after United finished eighth in the league. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Joel Glazer, and Avram Glazer were present at Wembley and were likely impressed by the team's performance and Ten Hag's strategy.
Most expected City to achieve a second consecutive domestic double after winning their fourth straight top-flight title, but they seemed off form. United, on the other hand, were focused and prepared, with Garnacho exploiting a defensive mistake to give them a surprising lead in the 30th minute. Mainoo extended the lead before halftime, capitalizing on a team move, despite City's Erling Haaland hitting the bar during a phase of pressure.
Andre Onana allowed a late goal from Doku, creating some tension, but United held on for the win. This victory concluded a challenging season marked by injuries, with Ten Hag hoping to avoid the fate of Louis van Gaal, who was sacked after winning the FA Cup in 2016. The match started energetically, with Marcus Rashford's early run leading to a City counterattack, but no penalty was given after Haaland went down in the box.
United maintained their defensive shape while pressing City effectively. City, looking unlike the team that had just clinched the title, gifted United a goal in the 30th minute after a defensive error by Josko Gvardiol, which Garnacho capitalized on. Rashford's goal was disallowed for offside shortly after, but Mainoo soon scored, making it 2-0. City tried to respond with substitutions at halftime, but Haaland's attempt hit the bar, and Onana made crucial saves to keep United ahead. Despite late pressure and Doku's goal, United celebrated a memorable victory at the final whistle.
