The stage is set for tomorrow’s FA Cup final between Manchester City and Manchester United. Anticipation is high for this emphatic derby, with both sides eager to claim the trophy. Although the Sky Blues’ recent form makes them the favorites against a struggling Red Devils team, United legend Rio Ferdinand has cautioned Pep Guardiola about the potential backlash if City loses to what he considers the ‘worst‘ United team in years.

The warning was fired in the latest episode of Rio Ferdinand Presents Five while taking a ride in a taxi alongside Joel Beya to roam the streets of Peckham. Discussing the preview of tomorrow’s derby, Beya asked what winning an FA Cup means for Guardiola, given that they recently added their record fourth consecutive Premier League trophy. Interestingly, Ferdinand replied, “Winning the FA Cup doesn’t make any difference to his legacy but losing it could.”

Even though Beya argued that they won’t be judged much even if they surprisingly lose against Erik ten Hag’s side, the former England defender added that it could affect Guardiola’s heritage a little bit. “If he loses, it would be against the worst Man United team we’ve seen in a long time,” concluded Ferdinand. So there you have it, City has every reason to give their best in tomorrow’s final.

Notably, last year, the two sides met in the final, with City clinching a 2-1 victory over United. This time, the reigning champions are again looking to add the trophy to their cabinet. If they fail, the team, especially Guardiola, will face the wrath of the soccer world. However, deep down, Ferdinand knows City will play at Wembley for the win, as the message he received earlier from Guardiola is enough to prove that.

Pep Guardiola informed Rio Ferdinand about his four-in-a-row dream before the season began

Rio Ferdinand earlier reflected on his conversation with Pep Guardiola following Manchester City’s title triumph. While praising the ex-Bayern Munich boss, the Manchester United icon narrated a surprising conversation with Guardiola, who had expressed his ambition for four consecutive victories even before the season began.

In fact, the ex-Barcelona boss even inquired whether United had ever achieved such a feat. While backing Guardiola as the difference maker at Etihad Stadium, Ferdinand added, “There is a hunger and desire for him to overtake Manchester United. This guy is the main difference, he’s a genius amongst the elite people in that squad, and at the club.” 

We reckon Pep Guardiola has already imagined defeating Manchester United in the FA Cup final twice in his mind. Will he achieve this, or will Manchester United surprise him? Let the game begin!