Manchester United Manager Warns Against Underestimating Coventry City Ahead of FA Cup Semifinal

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has cautioned against underestimating Coventry City as the two teams prepare to face off in the FA Cup semifinal at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. Both sides advanced to this stage after defeating Premier League opponents in the previous round, with Coventry eliminating Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester United triumphing over Liverpool.

Despite Coventry's recent struggles in the Championship, where they currently sit eighth and eight points behind the playoff places, Ten Hag remains wary of their potential to cause an upset. "Coventry have shown they are up for the cup this year with a remarkable quarterfinal comeback win over Wolves," he noted. The Sky Blues have a history of stunning Manchester United, having defeated them 2-0 in the 2007-08 EFL Cup.

Coventry City manager Mark Robins, a former Manchester United player who scored the winning goal against Nottingham Forest in the 1990 FA Cup to help his then-club secure the trophy, acknowledges the challenge his team faces. "Manchester United are the clear favorites to win the game, but Coventry City will aim to enjoy the occasion and play their part," Robins stated. He wants his side to "play a part in the game in as positive way as we possibly can."

The match holds significant importance for both managers. Ten Hag's position has come under scrutiny following an underwhelming season, but a second successive FA Cup final appearance could bolster his case to remain at the helm, particularly with the impending arrival of new owners and potential changes at the club. For Robins and Coventry, a trip to Wembley provides a respite from their tumultuous past 20 years, which have been marred by financial troubles and stadium issues.

Why this matters: The FA Cup semifinal between Manchester United and Coventry City carries implications beyond the immediate result. For United, it represents an opportunity to salvage a disappointing season and potentially secure silverware. For Coventry, it offers a chance to create a memorable giant-killing moment and bring joy to a fanbase that has endured challenging times.

Injury concerns plague both sides heading into the clash. Manchester United will be without several key defensive players, which could provide Coventry with a glimmer of hope. However, the Red Devils are expected to welcome back winger Anthony and midfielder Scott McTominay, while defender Harry Maguire could also feature after recovering from a minor injury. Coventry, meanwhile, will be missing suspended midfielder Kasey Palmer and injured winger Tatsuhiro Sakamoto, although Jamie Allen could return to the squad for the first time since February.

Key Takeaways

• Manchester United face Coventry City in the FA Cup semifinal at Wembley.
• Ten Hag warns against underestimating Coventry, who have upset Premier League teams.
• The match holds significance for both managers, with implications beyond the result.
• Injury concerns plague both sides, but key players could return for the clash.
• The FA Cup semifinal promises an enthralling encounter, with both teams vying for a final spot.