Manchester already engraved on FA Cup trophy ahead of Saturday’s final match!

Man United will take on Man City in the FA Cup final this weekend in a historic game for England’s oldest cup competition.

The FA Cup has been partially engraved ahead of this weekend’s final between Manchester United and Manchester City.

The fixture is the first time in history that a Manchester derby will be played in the FA Cup final and to mark the historic occasion, the decision has been made to partially engrave the trophy early with the word ‘Manchester’.

That means either United or City will be added to the trophy following the final whistle at Wembley on Saturday 3 June.

The FA’s Director of Professional Game Relations, Andy Ambler, said: “It’s remarkable that these giants of English football have won the competition on 18 out of a possible 141 occasions between them but not met in the final until now.

“This unique engraving underlines the historic nature of the game in prospect, and we can’t wait to see whether it will be City or United added to the trophy.”

City are the favourites to lift the trophy after claiming the Premier League title. Pep Guardiola’s side are in contention to win the treble, just like United did in 1998/99, and that adds an extra dynamic to an already much-anticipated game.

Erik ten Hag, speaking after United’s final home match of the season, said his side would do everything to win the FA Cup.

“First of all, I want to say thank you to our players,” Ten Hag said to rapturous applause. “I think they played a brilliant season. Thank you to the staff and I also want to thank you all. Thank you for your contribution, backing us and the support.

“It was great, so thank you. But when I say these words, there’s still one game to go and I’m sure these players will give everything to beat Manchester City next week. I’m sure we have a really good chance to take the cup back to Old Trafford.”

Winning and losing clubs in the final will receive £2 million and £1 million respectively from the competition’s prize fund.