Crystal Palace return to Wembley today in search of their first major trophy as they face Manchester City in the FA Cup final. The Eagles, twice runners-up in this competition, are hopeful this time will be different.
In a huge boost, Adam Wharton is fit and ready to start after recovering from an ankle injury sustained earlier this month against Nottingham Forest. The midfielder had missed the 2-0 victory over Tottenham but trained all week and is available for selection.
Manager Oliver Glasner confirmed that the squad is in good shape overall. Only long-term absentees Cheick Doucoure and Chadi Riad remain sidelined after season-ending injuries in January. The rest of the team is fully fit, giving Glasner several positive selection headaches.
A key decision now lies in midfield—while Wharton is expected to start, it remains to be seen whether Will Hughes, Jefferson Lerma, or Daichi Kamada will line up beside him. Kamada was impressive in the semi-final win over Aston Villa, which could give him the edge.
Meanwhile, Manchester City are looking to salvage silverware from a less-than-spectacular season. The reigning champions have injury concerns of their own. John Stones and Rodri have both missed significant time—Stones hasn’t played since February, and Rodri has been out since tearing his ACL last September.
Though Rodri is nearing full fitness, Guardiola indicated he won’t take risks unless the medical team clears him. Haaland returned for City’s goalless draw at Southampton but struggled to make an impact despite playing the full match.
Nathan Ake and Oscar Bobb have resumed training but remain doubtful for the final.
Palace’s likely XI features Henderson in goal, supported by Richards, Lacroix, Guehi, and Munoz at the back. Wharton and Kamada may control the midfield, with Mitchell, Sarr, Eze, and Mateta forming the attacking threat.
City’s expected lineup includes Ortega, Nunes, Dias, Akanji, Gvardiol, Bernardo, Kovacic, Foden, De Bruyne, Marmoush, and Haaland.
As both teams prepare for a decisive showdown, all eyes turn to Wembley, where one club will walk away with glory—and the other with regrets.