The FA Cup final was a true underdog story, with Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United coming out victorious against their arch-rivals, Manchester City. In a surprising turn of events, the Red Devils dominated the match. Now, let’s take a look at the top ten players of the final.
10. Lisandro Martinez
Lisandro Martinez, the Argentine center-back, showed great composure on the ball, allowing Mainoo to receive it in favorable conditions. Despite not facing many threats, he kept all dangers at bay and successfully shut down Haaland, who was invisible in the final.
Martinez avoided aerial duels due to his height but displayed solid leadership on the field. His performance may not have been flashy, but his precise passing and responsible distribution stood out, completing 18 out of 20 passes.
9. Rodri
Rodri stood out in midfield for City while the likes of De Bruyne and Silva struggled. He maintained his composure and helped in advancing the team, showing caution in counter-attacks. Amidst the chaos, Rodri was a stable presence for City.
8. Jeremy Doku
Doku, despite coming on as a substitute, scored City’s only goal late in the game, showcasing his ability to thrive in chaotic situations. His composure and determination were unmatched among City players, making him a fan favorite.
7. Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Wan-Bissaka had a solid defensive performance in the final, limiting attacks from City’s side. His interceptions and clearances were crucial in maintaining a solid defensive line against Phil Foden.
6. Kyle Walker
Kyle Walker’s athleticism was a threat to United’s defense, despite some spatial awareness lapses. His energetic runs down the wing added dynamism to City’s play but also left openings for the opposition.
5. Phil Foden
Foden remained a constant threat for United, keeping his composure while others struggled. His performance forced United to be cautious of his attacking prowess throughout the match.
4. Diogo Dalot
Dalot’s solid performance in the final highlighted his importance to United’s attack. He exploited space effectively and remained reliable throughout the game, making the most of opportunities provided by Walker’s advanced runs.
3. Alejandro Garnacho
Garnacho’s ability to unbalance the opposition was evident, as he scored and troubled City’s defense. His confidence and attacking flair made him a standout performer in the final.
2. Kobbie Mainoo
Mainoo’s rise as a key player for United was on display, showcasing his technical prowess and calm demeanor. His ability to transition defense into attack smoothly was crucial for United’s success in the final.
1. Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes proved his worth in the final, with his risky passes leading to crucial assists. He was the most influential player on the pitch, showcasing his attacking vision and composure under pressure. Fernandes was a deserving recipient of the best player award for his performance in the final.