In an unexpected turn of events, Manchester United, under the leadership of the much-criticized manager Erik ten Hag, managed to secure a remarkable 2-1 victory in the FA Cup final against the favored Manchester City at Wembley.
The final, a Manchester derby, saw Ten Hag facing increasing speculation about his imminent dismissal by United’s new co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, regardless of the match’s result.
However, if Ten Hag is to be let go, he will depart on the heels of his most glorious day in his two-year tenure and a high point for United in recent years. This follows a performance that was a stark contrast to the lackluster displays they’ve put up this season.
United’s victory, which prevented Premier League champions City from achieving a back-to-back domestic double, was the result of an exceptional first-half performance that saw goals from Alejadro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
Garnacho capitalized on a misunderstanding between City’s goalkeeper Stefan Ortega and Josko Gvardiol, resulting in an unguarded goal at the half-hour mark. Meanwhile, Mainoo topped off a fluid move with a composed finish from Bruno Fernandes’ subtle assist nine minutes later.
As expected, City ramped up the pressure in the second half, with Erling Haaland striking the goal frame, United’s goalkeeper Andre Onana making a brilliant save from Kyle Walker, and Julian Alvarez missing a golden opportunity.
City’s substitute Jeremy Doku managed to score a goal with just four minutes remaining, but Ten Hag’s team stood their ground to secure a memorable victory and clinch their 13th FA Cup, their first since 2016.
