Manchester United’s route to the FA Cup final

For the very first time in English football history, both Manchester clubs collide in the finals of the FA Cup

The FA Cup, one of English football's most prestigious competitions, witnessed a thrilling journey in the 2022-23 season as Manchester United made their way to the final. Under the guidance of their esteemed manager Erik ten Hag and a squad brimming with talent, the Red Devils battled formidable opponents, overcoming numerous challenges on their path to Wembley Stadium. This feature article aims to delve into Manchester United's remarkable journey and the unwavering determination that led them to the 2023 FA Cup final.

Revitalized Squad and Managerial Masterclass

Manchester United entered the 2022-23 season under a new manager. After beaming success with Eredivisie side AFC Ajax in Amsterdam, Erik Ten Hag was appointed by the Red Devils to replace Ralf Rangnick.

With renewed vigour, bolstered by a series of strategic signings and a highly talented squad. Managerial maestro Erik ten Hag instilled a fresh attacking philosophy and tactical approach that resonated throughout the team. The integration of new signings, such as the five-time Champions League winner Casemiro and winger Antony, provided much-needed depth and dynamism.

The season is nearing its end, with only the FA Cup final to play for, and Ten Hag has done pretty well. Manchester United finished third in the Premier League. Although 14 points behind city rivals Manchester City. Ten Hag is now looking to end the season with a double, having already secured the Carabao Cup title. A United win in the FA Cup final will also ensure that they remain the only English side to complete a treble. The Manchester United treble came in the 1998–99 season.

Thrilling Early Rounds

The Red Devils kicked off their FA Cup campaign with a convincing victory over Everton, a side that nearly escaped relegation on matchday 38 of the Premier League. The third round ended 3-1 to give United a good taste to start with. New signing Antony scored the opener in the 4th minute. Conor Coady scored on both ends of the field. Manchester United’s second goal was an own goal by Everton’s Coady. With a 90+7’ Rashford penalty, the final whistle was blown.

As the competition progressed, Manchester United faced a stern challenge from Championship side Reading. In the fourth round of the FA Cup, it was United’s new recruit Casemiro who opened the scoring in the 54th minute. He completed his brace in the next four minutes. Fred made it 3-0 by the 66-minute mark. However, Amadou Mbengue’s 72nd-minute goal served as a mere consolation as United beat Reading 3-1 at Old Trafford.

As if it was not enough of a 3-1 scoreline by now, Manchester United moved to the quarterfinals by beating the Hammers 3-1 in the fifth round. They also managed to progress further to the semi-finals by beating Premier League side Fulham FC in the quarterfinals. And guess how the game ended? Man United 3-1 Fulham.

Semifinal Showdown against the high-flying Seagulls

Things changed dramatically in a pulsating FA Cup semi-final clash at Wembley. The Seagulls were toe-to-toe with Ten Hag’s Red Devils all night long. United emerged victorious after a thrilling penalty shootout against Brighton & Hove Albion. The match finished 0-0 after extra time, setting the stage for an all-Manchester final.

The tension was palpable as both teams took the pitch, and the game lived up to its billing with wild swings and end-to-end action throughout the night. As the rain poured down, the quality of penalties displayed by both sides was exceptional. United showed nerves of steel, converting all seven of their spot-kicks with precision.

Brighton matched Manchester United blow for blow with six equally impressive penalties, until Solly March stepped up as their seventh shooter. Unfortunately for Brighton, March launched his shot over the bar, leaving the door open for United to seal their victory. Victor Lindelof calmly found the net, securing a nerve-wracking 7-6 shootout triumph for the Red Devils.

The nail-biting finale was a fitting end to a game that had kept spectators on the edge of their seats for 120 goalless minutes.

The Red Devils will now look for the final flourish

With a hard-fought victory in the semis, Manchester United, under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag, kept their hopes of a cup double alive after winning the League Cup earlier in the season. Their triumph set the stage for an eagerly anticipated final against treble-chasing Manchester City, who had secured a 3-0 victory against Sheffield United in their own semi-final clash.

As the FA Cup final looms on June 3 at Wembley, the anticipation and excitement are palpable. Manchester United's resilient performance in the semi-final showcased their determination and ability to thrive under pressure. The stage is now set for an epic all-Manchester clash as both teams seek to etch their names in football history and claim the coveted FA Cup trophy.