In an FA Cup final when Manchester City history was supposed to be made, and Erik ten Hag’s future supposed to be set, he and Manchester United lifted the old trophy by seizing the day.
The new winners were fully immersed in the moment. It may be a moment of history in itself, given how United silverware is such a surprise, but it was all the sweeter for that. The celebration of the crowd said enough. Ten Hag has the last word. The Dutch coach relished a second trophy in two years – especially if this was indeed to be his final match at the club. Belatedly, Ten Hag has at least made the best possible case to keep his job, and maybe change expectations. His team defied all expectations about this match, as well as Pep Guardiola’s recent record. The Manchester City coach was beaten in a domestic cup final for the first time since 2011, to ensure he will not enjoy English football’s first-ever “double double”, to amplify last year’s treble.
