This season’s FA Cup final will not feature Leeds United, as they fell short against Chelsea in a closely contested semi-final, losing 1-0. This defeat extends Leeds’ wait for a return to the FA Cup final, highlighting the ongoing challenges the club faces. Chelsea’s success over Leeds has secured them a place in the prestigious match against Manchester City.
Chelsea – 2026
Chelsea boasts a remarkable history in the FA Cup, having reached the final more times than all but two teams. With eight victories and eight runner-up finishes, the club aims to reclaim glory by defeating Manchester City, hoping to win the competition for the first time since 2018. Chelsea’s journey has not been without its struggles, as they faced the disappointment of three consecutive final losses from 2020 to 2022.
Manchester City – 2026
Manchester City, with seven FA Cup victories to their name, has been a powerful force in English football. Intriguingly, most of their successes have come before their high-profile takeover in 2008, showcasing their long-standing pedigree. By triumphing over Southampton in this year’s semi-final, they have secured an impressive fourth consecutive FA Cup final appearance, looking to solidify their dominance.
Crystal Palace – 2025
Crystal Palace celebrated a historic achievement by securing their first major trophy, triumphing over Manchester City in last season’s final. This victory has etched their name in the annals of FA Cup history, adding to the intrigue and excitement of the competition.
Manchester United – 2024
With 22 FA Cup final appearances, Manchester United holds the record for the most finals contested. Their latest journey culminated two seasons ago with a 2-1 victory over local rivals Manchester City, a win that was pivotal for manager Erik ten Hag amidst a challenging period.
Liverpool – 2022
Liverpool made headlines in 2022 with hopes of achieving a historic quadruple. Their FA Cup victory over Chelsea, following success in the EFL Cup, showcased their competitiveness. However, despite their cup triumphs, they fell short in the Premier League and Champions League.
Arsenal – 2020
The FA Cup of 2019-20 marked a significant moment for Arsenal, as it was their first trophy under manager Mikel Arteta. This victory not only added to their status as the FA Cup’s most successful club but also reinvigorated the squad’s ambitions for future success.
Aston Villa – 2015
Aston Villa, although a seven-time FA Cup champion, has not claimed the trophy since the 1950s. Their most recent final appearance was a defeat against Arsenal in 2015, maintaining a sense of hope that they can return to the limelight in future competitions.
Everton – 2009
Everton’s historical struggle in trophy competitions is well-documented, with many noting they are the only team in England’s top four leagues yet to achieve success in the 21st century. Their last FA Cup final appearance in 2009 saw them gain an early lead, but they ultimately lost 2-1 to Chelsea.
West Ham United – 2006
West Ham came agonizingly close to a memorable FA Cup victory in 2006, only to be thwarted by a penalty shootout against Liverpool. Their last journey to the final remains a painful reminder of how fleeting success can be.
Newcastle United – 1999
Despite winning the EFL Cup recently, Newcastle has not tasted FA Cup success since 1955. Their last final appearance was a defeat to a treble-winning Manchester United side in 1999, leaving fans longing for a return to the top.
Sunderland – 1992
Sunderland had their last FA Cup final appearance in 1992, where they lost to Liverpool. Recently, the club enjoyed success at Wembley, but a return to the FA Cup final remains elusive.
Tottenham Hotspur – 1991
The 1991 FA Cup final saw Tottenham Hotspur victorious after a gripping match. However, neither they nor their opponents have returned to the final since, marking a significant gap in their respective histories.
Nottingham Forest – 1991
Nottingham Forest, despite their storied past, has not appeared in an FA Cup final since losing to Tottenham Hotspur in 1991. Their historical wins in the competition have not translated into recent success.
Brighton & Hove Albion – 1983
Brighton’s solitary FA Cup final appearance came in 1983, where they battled Manchester United. After a draw, the replay ended in a 4-0 defeat, a bittersweet moment etched in the club’s history.
Fulham – 1975
Fulham’s only FA Cup final, which occurred in 1975 against West Ham, resulted in a loss. Over the decades, they have sought to return to that level of competition without success.
Leeds United – 1973
Leeds United made headlines when they won their first FA Cup in 1972, but they faced disappointment in the following year’s final against Sunderland, marking their third runner-up finish. Their quest to return to the final continues.
Burnley – 1962
Burnley’s rich history includes a FA Cup victory in 1914, yet they have come up short in both finals they have reached since then, the latest being a loss to Tottenham in 1962.
Wolves – 1960
Wolves last tasted FA Cup success in 1960, defeating Blackburn Rovers 3-0. This remains their eighth and most recent final appearance, and fans hope for a resurgence in future competitions.
Conclusion: The FA Cup remains a cherished competition with a rich history, reflecting the ups and downs of participating clubs. As this season progresses, fans eagerly await the final match-up between Chelsea and Manchester City, while hoping their teams can find a way back to this prestigious stage in the years to come.
