"They are not" - Ian Wright firmly disagrees with Manchester United FA Cup final prediction from Gary Neville
Former Arsenal forward Ian Wright has disagreed with Gary Neville's prediction that Manchester United will defeat bitter-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final. The summit clash will take place on May 25 at Wembley Stadium in London.
The Cityzens, who are also the defending champions, beat Chelsea 1-0 in the semi-final to bag a chance to win the domestic cup consecutive times. On the flip side, the Red Devils beat Coventry City 4-2 on penalties to muster a shot to beat the defending champions.
Interestingly, the two teams faced each other in last year's edition of the FA Cup final as well. City emerged victorious and defeated United 2-1.
While City are promised a UEFA Champions League spot for next season, United's hopes at European competition currently hangs in the balance. They need to beat Brighton & Hove Albion on May 19, Sunday and hope that both Newcastle United and Chelsea lose their respective games. Otherwise, they'll have to win the FA Cup final against Pep Guardiola's men to compete in the Europa League.
While speaking on 'The Overlap' YouTube channel, Gary Neville predicted that Manchester United will defeat City in the final of the FA Cup. However, Ian Wright didn't agree with his prediction and said:
"Gary, they are not. Man United are not beating Man City. I would like to give you something, but there’s nothing to even look back on to make you feel like they are going to do that. I would love them to do it if I am being totally honest."
The Cityzens have emerged victorious in two of the last three Manchester derbies. With the form they're currently in, it'll be an uphill task for Manchester United to beat Manchester City.
Raphael Varane to leave Manchester United at the end of the season
Raphael Varane joined the Old Trafford club from Real Madrid for a reported fee of £40 million ($50.2m) in 2021. Since then, he has made 93 appearances for the Red Devils. Sadly, his stint in English shores has been plagued with injuries.
United, who had the option of extending the centre-back's contract until 2025, have opted against triggering it. He hasn't featured in any game since Manchester United's 4-3 defeat at the hands of Chelsea in April. However, he'll likely play in the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Here's what Varane said on social media:
"The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man United player it was insane, the atmosphere was amazing. I fell in love with the club and the fans. You have to play for Man United to understand what that represents. Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I'm very positive for the future."
The Red Devils have struggled this season due to injuries. Defense has been an area of concern for Erik ten Hag and Manchester United are likely to bring in reinforcements in the summer to bolster the squad.