Arsene Wenger hopes to end the most painful season of his long tenure as Arsenal manager with FA Cup victory over recently-crowned Premier League champions Chelsea. Express takes a look at the highly-anticipated fixture...
Cup redemption
After missing out on a Champions League spot for the first time in 20 years, Arsenal have faced plenty of criticism from fans and former players. They have a chance to salvage some pride. If they manage to win, it will be a record-breaking 13 victories. But Antonio Conte’s Chelsea will be looking to spoil their party. Having played well throughout the season, they would want to make hay while the sun shines.
Diego Costa (Chelsea)
With rumours floating around that Costa is likely to exit, the man who has been at the heart of affairs for the Blues for three seasons will be keen on firing the team.
Back problems
Laurent Koscielny, who saw a red card in the final outing in the league, will be a big miss for Wenger’s men. Summer signing Shkodran Mustafi is also unlikely for the match. Veteran Per Mertesacker is likely to make a rare appearance this term alongside Rob Holding and makeshift centre-back Nacho Monreal. Chelsea, meanwhile, will have a full-strength unit.
Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal)
While Arsenal have had many critics (including own fans), not many can complain about Sanchez’s commitment on the pitch.
Blues firm favourites
After lifting the Premier League crown, Conte insisted that Arsenal have the upper hand. However, not many punters would want to gamble on Conte’s forethought. With different parts functioning smoothly and goals coming from various sources, it will be an upset if Chelsea slip up. Their defence too appears superior.
3: If Chelsea win, they will become the third club to achieve a double (league and FA Cup) on more than one occasion, joining Arsenal and Man United, who have achieved the feat three times apiece.
6: If the Gunners lift the Cup, it will be a record seventh win for Arsene Wenger. The Frenchman shares top spot with George Ramsay, whose Aston Villa sides won it on six occasions between 1887 and 1920.
Path to final
Arsenal
3rd rd: 2-1 vs Preston North End (a)
4th rd: 5-0 vs Southampton (a)
5th rd: 2-0 vs Sutton United (a)
Quarterfinal: 5-0 vs Lincoln City (h)
Semifinal: 2-1 vs Man City (aet; Wembley)
Chelsea
3rd rd: 4-1 vs Peterborough United (h)
4th rd: 4-0 vs Brentford (h)
5th rd: 2-0 vs Wolverhampton (a)
Quarterfinal: 1-0 vs Man Utd (h)
Semifinal: 4-2 vs Tottenham Hotspur (Wembley)