Struggling Man City And Man Utd Turn Attention To FA Cup Amid Inconsistent Campaigns

Manchester City’s aspirations for silverware this season hinge entirely on the FA Cup as they prepare to face second-tier Plymouth on Saturday.

Meanwhile, reigning champions Manchester United also find themselves in dire need of triumphs to salvage a disappointing campaign.

With Premier League leaders Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham already out, the path has been cleared for the Manchester giants, who have faced off in each of the past two finals.

Brighton, Newcastle, and Crystal Palace are also among the clubs aspiring for glory at Wembley on May 17th.

In this edition, sportxparte highlights the standout matches from the fifth round taking place this weekend:

Crystal Palace vs Millwall (Saturday, 14:15 WAT)

As twice FA Cup runners-up, Crystal Palace has yet to secure a major trophy, but they are hitting their stride at the perfect moment in their quest to reach Wembley this year.

Oliver Glasner’s men have won seven of their last nine games in all competitions, most recently thrashing Aston Villa 4-1 in midweek.

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s impressive run of eight goals in nine matches has propelled the Eagles well above relegation concerns, elevating them to 12th place in the Premier League.

Now they face a local derby against Championship side Millwall, who are keen to spoil the ambitions of their south London rivals.

Manchester City vs Plymouth (Saturday, 19:30 WAT)

Plymouth was the standout story of the fourth round, pulling off a stunning 1-0 victory against Liverpool at Home Park. Argyle’s reward for this remarkable feat is a trip to the Etihad, presenting them with an opportunity to create another monumental upset.

Plymouth manager, Miron Muslic has become an internet sensation after clips of his inspirational team talks went viral, and he is looking forward to coming up against his coaching idol, Pep Guardiola.

“It’s the biggest honor in my life,” said Music.

“I’m very much looking forward to shaking his hand and telling him that he’s a giant of our sport and a huge, huge role model for every single coach in the world.”

Newcastle vs Brighton (Sunday, 13:45 WAT)

Undoubtedly, the standout match of the round features the sixth-placed team in the Premier League facing off against the eighth-placed team.

Newcastle is already poised for one final next month against Liverpool in the League Cup.

The Magpies have not won a major trophy for 56 years but can ill afford to let the success or failure of their season hang on a clash with the Premier League champions-elect.

Brighton has clinched four consecutive victories following a challenging period in Fabian Hurzeler’s debut season as manager. Earlier in the season, the Seagulls secured a win at St. James’ Park and frequently excel against the toughest opponents.

Much will depend on the fitness of Newcastle’s 21-goal striker, Alexander Isak, who missed Wednesday’s 2-0 defeat at Liverpool due to a groin strain.

Manchester United vs Fulham (Sunday, 18:30 WAT)

United salvaged a dismal campaign last season by defeating City to claim the Cup, but many doubt that Ruben Amorim’s team can replicate that achievement.

The Red Devils did show heart in beating Ipswich 3-2 on Wednesday despite Patrick Dorgu’s first-half red card for just a third league win in 11 matches.

Fulham currently sits five places and nine points ahead of United in the Premier League, yet they have suffered defeat in both encounters against their rivals this season, each ending in a narrow 1-0 loss.

The Cottagers are not only focused on avenging those matches but also seek retribution for a contentious FA Cup quarter-final at Old Trafford two years ago.

Fulham was ahead 1-0 with just 15 minutes remaining when captain Aleksandar Mitrovic, along with Willian and manager Marco Silva, were all dismissed after Willian’s handball on the goal line.

United went on to win 3-1 and Mitrovic received an eight-game ban for pushing referee Chris Kavanagh.