Manchester City and Chelsea will renew their rivalry at Wembley Stadium on Saturday in an FA Cup final loaded with pressure, history and contrasting ambitions.
City are aiming to keep their treble hopes alive after already lifting the League Cup earlier this season, while Chelsea are seeking a major trophy to rescue an inconsistent campaign.
Manager Pep Guardiola has guided City to a fourth consecutive FA Cup final, extending the club’s dominance in domestic competitions during his time at the Etihad Stadium.
Chelsea, meanwhile, arrive at Wembley struggling for league form. The London side have not won a Premier League match in more than two months and suffered a 3-0 defeat to City at Stamford Bridge in April.
Guardiola backs Haaland to end Wembley drought
Despite City’s recent dominance over Chelsea, one statistic continues to follow striker Erling Haaland ahead of the final.
The Norwegian has failed to score in seven appearances at Wembley, although Guardiola believes that run could end in the final.
“Oh really? That’s good then,” Guardiola said when informed about Haaland’s record. “On Saturday, he will score.”
City have not lost any of their last 13 matches against Chelsea in all competitions, recording 10 wins and three draws since their defeat in the 2021 Champions League final.
Chelsea boosted by returning players
Chelsea interim coach Callum McFarlane welcomes back captain Reece James after injury, while Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto are also available.
However, Chelsea will be without injured teenager Estêvão Willian.
City are expected to restore several key players after resting them during the midweek win over Crystal Palace, including Haaland, Rayan Cherki and Jeremy Doku.
Midfielder Rodri remains doubtful with a groin injury.
History favours City
Chelsea are appearing in their 17th FA Cup final but have lost each of their last three appearances in the competition’s showpiece event.
City and Chelsea have also been the competition’s most successful teams since the 2016-17 season in terms of wins, goals and clean sheets.
While City enter the final as favourites, Chelsea will hope Wembley produces another upset after Crystal Palace stunned Guardiola’s side in last year’s final.
