Youth Cup derby joy, Palace win tightens title race, FA Cup final awaits

Palace swept aside, two points from the summit

Three goals, three points, and the title race is now razor-tight. City beat Crystal Palace 3–0 at the Etihad to move within two points of the top of the Premier League (1). No messing about, no late drama — just the kind of controlled dismantling you need at this stage of the season.

The win sets up a massive weekend: the FA Cup final against Chelsea, with Pep Guardiola chasing yet another trophy (4) (5) (6) (8). Chelsea have confirmed a triple boost ahead of the final (4), but City's rhythm looks ominous.

FA Youth Cup won at United's expense

City's U18s beat United's U18s 2–1 in the FA Youth Cup final, with Reigan Heskey grabbing a late winner (2) (3). That's now five Youth Cup triumphs — 1986, 2008, 2020, 2024, and now 2026. A derby win, a trophy lifted, and another reminder that the conveyor belt at this club isn't slowing down.

Rodri update: World Cup not at risk

Guardiola has moved to calm fears about Rodri's groin injury, stating plainly: "Rodri no se perderá el Mundial" (7). He's been out since April and won't feature in the FA Cup final, but the news that his World Cup hopes remain intact is a significant relief.

Guardiola exit rumours swirl as backroom staff depart

Trusted physiotherapist Lorenzo Buenaventura is leaving, one of two key assistants heading for the exit (9). It's fuelling speculation that Guardiola himself could be closer to the door. Nothing confirmed — but when two of his most trusted lieutenants walk, it's impossible not to wonder.

Women's team: £10m training centre and Shaw nominated

City have officially opened a new £10m training facility for the women's team, fresh off their WSL title win (10). Meanwhile, Khadija "Bunny" Shaw has been shortlisted for WSL Player of the Season (11). Recognition that matches the investment.

Valverde on the radar

City are reportedly interested in Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde (13). No bid yet, but he's the profile of midfielder Guardiola loves — versatile, relentless, and technically sharp.

Agbonlahor takes aim at the fanbase

Gabriel Agbonlahor has decided City don't have a strong fanbase (1). Empty seats at the Etihad are his evidence. The same Etihad that just watched a 3–0 dismantling. The same fanbase that's seen five Youth Cups, four straight Premier Leagues, and a Treble. The criticism is tired, but it will follow City until the seats are full every week.

Sources

  • 1. readmancity.com — Gabriel Agbonlahor says Man City do ‘not have a strong fanbase’ – but his criticism is unjustified
  • 2. bbc.com — Man City beat rivals Man Utd 2-1 to win FA Youth Cup
  • 3. thepeoplesperson.com — Video: 18yo full-back's Cup final heroics go in vain as United suffer dramatic heartbreak at the death
  • 4. readchelsea.com — Chelsea confirm triple boost for FA Cup final vs Manchester City
  • 5. justarsenal.com — Dan’s EPL Predictions Week 36 – FA Cup Final and a home win for Arsenal v Burnley
  • 6. theguardian.com — Premier League and FA Cup final: 10 things to look out for this weekend
  • 7. mundodeportivo.com — Guardiola: "Rodri no se perderá el Mundial"
  • 8. readmancity.com — Calum McFarlane brands Man City ‘exceptional’ ahead of FA Cup final – but makes controversial claim
  • 9. mundodeportivo.com — ¿Guardiola, más cerca del adiós? Dos de sus ayudantes de máxima confianza dejan el City
  • 10. ge.globo.com — Manchester City inaugura CT de R$ 67 milhões para o time feminino; veja vídeo
  • 11. bbc.com — Shaw leads WSL player of the season shortlist
  • 13. bbc.com — PSG & Arsenal eye Fernandes - Friday's gossip