May 23rd 2024.
As the highly anticipated FA Cup final between Manchester United and Manchester City approaches, there is growing uncertainty surrounding Erik ten Hag's future as United's manager. Former United player Rio Ferdinand has expressed his lack of confidence in United's chances against City and believes it will take a monumental effort to come out victorious.
The odds are not in United's favor as they have had a difficult season, finishing in a disappointing eighth place in the Premier League. On the other hand, City will be full of confidence after securing their fourth consecutive title on the last day of the season. They also have the advantage of having defeated United in last year's cup final, with midfielder Ilkay Gundogan scoring two goals to lead them to victory.
United also have the added pressure of needing a win to secure a spot in next year's Europa League. After being pipped to seventh place by Newcastle, they are determined to end the season on a high note. However, Ferdinand believes it will take a huge amount of luck and fortune for United to come out on top at Wembley.
In an interview on the Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE YouTube channel, Ferdinand expressed his doubts about United's chances. "Based on what I've seen this season from both sides, Manchester City and Manchester United, I've got no confidence, I have to say. It's the first time I'm going to a cup final with Man United and thinking that we have a very, very, very, very small chance of winning this game."
Ferdinand also acknowledged the growing gap between United and City, stating that it is the biggest it has ever been. He questioned how he could have any confidence going into the game when the fall off between the two teams is so significant.
However, Ferdinand does see a glimmer of hope for United. "You have a puncher's chance because we've got someone like Bruno [Fernandes] maybe or Marcus [Rashford] or [Alejandro] Garnacho who can have a moment, an explosive moment." He also mentioned Rashford's goal against City earlier in the season as a reminder of United's potential to cause an upset.
But despite this hope, Ferdinand believes it will take a crazy effort and a huge amount of luck and fortune for United to come out on top. He predicts a nail-biting game that will keep fans on the edge of their seats, but ultimately sees City as the likely winners.
As for ten Hag's future, Ferdinand believes the writing is on the wall regardless of the final's outcome. "I don't think it matters. I honestly feel that it's gone too far now. I'd be surprised if INEOS kept Ten Hag as the manager next season. There's something in my that's telling me that."
As United fans eagerly await the outcome of the FA Cup final, one thing is certain - it will be a fiercely contested match between two bitter rivals. And as Ferdinand said, as football fans, we always have hope and that's what makes the game so exciting.
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