The 2024/25 FA Cup gave football fans everything in terms of drama, surprise stories, and brilliant individual displays. From established stars to lesser-known names, several players rose above expectations and left their mark on England’s oldest competition.
Josh Magennis of Exeter City finished as the top scorer with six goals, including two penalties, proving himself a big-game player despite his side’s early exit. But it was Eberechi Eze who truly caught the eye. The Crystal Palace playmaker netted four goals, none from the spot, and was the heartbeat of Palace’s unforgettable title run.
His standout campaign eventually led to a major move to Arsenal, as confirmed in this Softfootball report. Ricky Jade-Jones of Peterborough United also scored four, matching Eze’s tally and showing the quality that exists outside the Premier League spotlight.
Manchester City’s talented youngsters Nico O’Reilly and James McAtee both scored three times, proving City’s academy continues to deliver on the big stage. Ismaïla Sarr joined them with three crucial goals for Palace, playing a major part in their historic triumph. Kevin De Bruyne, who also grabbed two goals, had another solid campaign before making headlines for a special moment in Italy when Napoli handed him Maradona’s iconic No. 10 shirt.
Dean Henderson’s heroics in the final, including a penalty save and clean sheet, sealed Palace’s fairytale. Defenders Daniel Muñoz and Marc Guehi anchored a backline that conceded just one goal in the entire competition, while Adam Wharton brought control and maturity in midfield. Together, they made Crystal Palace’s 2024/25 FA Cup journey one of the most memorable in modern times.
Emirates FA Cup posted Eberechi Eze’s goal in the 2025 FA Cup Final against Manchester City on their official X account.
Watch the video below:
