The FA Cup continues to deliver a mix of drama, nostalgia, and unpredictability. From emotional returns like Ruud van Nistelrooy’s to David vs. Goliath matchups and all-Premier League battles, this round has it all. Fans can expect thrilling moments, potential upsets, and standout performances from players hungry to leave their mark.
Come February, the magic of the FA Cup will remind us why it remains one of the most cherished competitions in world football.
Let us dive into each matchup and explore the key narratives, potential drama, and standout players to watch.
Manchester United vs Leicester City
Old Trafford plays host to a compelling reunion as Ruud van Nistelrooy, Leicester City’s head coach, returns to his former stomping ground. Once a legendary striker for Manchester United, Van Nistelrooy’s ties to the club run deep, both as a player and briefly as an interim manager, before Manchester United’s present manager, Ruben Amorim. Manchester United, eager to make up for inconsistencies this season, face a Leicester side with nothing to lose and a coach who knows the Red Devils all too well.
Player Spotlight: Altay Bayındır (Manchester United) – Likely to start in goal, the Turkish international was impressive in the last cup game and will look to cement his status as a reliable option for Erik ten Hag.
Player Spotlight: Amad Diallo (Manchester United) – The dynamic winger offers creativity and unpredictability, which could be pivotal in breaking down Leicester’s defense.
Player Spotlight: Jamie Vardy (Leicester City) – His knack for big-game goals makes him a danger even against elite opposition.
Leyton Orient vs Manchester City
Manchester City travel to League Two’s Leyton Orient, knowing that the FA Cup could be one of their best chances at silverware this season. Pep Guardiola is likely to rotate his squad, but the depth and quality of City’s lineup mean they’ll still be heavy favorites. Leyton Orient, however, will relish the chance to face one of Europe’s biggest teams and potentially script a fairytale moment.
Player Spotlight: Rico Lewis (Manchester City) – The young defender has impressed in cup games and will aim to showcase his talent again.
Birmingham City vs Newcastle United
A clash between Championship underdogs Birmingham City and top-four aspirants Newcastle United offers an intriguing contrast in ambitions. Newcastle, buoyed by Eddie Howe’s leadership, will aim to keep their momentum alive. Birmingham, meanwhile, have the chance to make a statement with a famous cup upset in front of their home fans.
Player Spotlight: Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle) – The Brazilian midfielder’s control of the game will be crucial.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle) –The swedish striker has been very profilic this season and will be hoping to add to his season’s tally.
Brighton and Hove Albion vs Chelsea
In one of the few all-Premier League fixtures, Brighton and Chelsea lock horns in what promises to be a tactical battle. Brighton’s free-flowing style under Roberto De Zerbi meets a Chelsea side trying to find consistency under new leadership. With both teams capable of attacking brilliance, this tie could provide end-to-end action.
Player Spotlight: Kaouru Mitoma (Brighton) – The Japanese winger’s ability to beat defenders will be key.
Player Spotlight: Cole Palmer (Chelsea) – His versatility could make him the game-changer.
Blackburn Rovers vs Wolverhampton Wanderers
This fixture pits Blackburn, who are enjoying a strong Championship campaign, against Premier League mainstays Wolverhampton Wanderers. Blackburn will be looking to their attacking threats to exploit Wolves’ vulnerabilities, while Wolves must stay focused to avoid an upset.
Player Spotlight: Adam Wharton (Blackburn) – The young midfielder has been pivotal in Rovers’ season.
Plymouth Argyle vs Liverpool
Liverpool head to Plymouth in a fixture that could test their resolve. While the Reds have enjoyed something of a stellar season under Arne Slot, Plymouth, however, will fancy their chances of creating an FA Cup moment for the ages with their passionate fanbase backing them.
Player Spotlight: Harvey Elliott (Liverpool) – The youngster’s creativity could unlock Plymouth’s defense.
Aston Villa vs Tottenham Hotspur
A clash of ambitions sees Aston Villa take on Tottenham Hotspur, with both teams eager for silverware. For Spurs’ manager Ange Postecoglou, this match is a chance to keep alive his promise of delivering a trophy in his second season. Villa, however, have been impressive at home and could make this a challenging evening for the visitors.
Player Spotlight: Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) – His goal-scoring form will be vital for Villa.
Player Spotlight: Heung Min-Son (Tottenham) – The creative spark in Spurs’ attack.
Doncaster Rovers vs Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace face League Two side Doncaster Rovers in a tie that could allow them to showcase their depth. For Doncaster, this is a chance to play the role of giant-killers, and they will need to give their all to unsettle Palace.
Player Spotlight: Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace) – His flair and technical skills could light up this game.
Exeter City vs Nottingham Forest
Exeter City welcome Nottingham Forest to St James Park in a classic underdog story. Forest, with their superior squad, will need to guard against overconfidence as Exeter look to take advantage of their home crowd.
Player Spotlight: Chris Wood (Nottingham Forest) – The burly frontman has been pivotal to Forest’s attack this season.
The FA Cup Round 4 will surely deliver an exciting lineup of matches that embody the charm and unpredictability of the competition. From Premier League showdowns to potential giant-killings by lower-league teams, fans are in for a weekend of thrilling football.
What match are you most looking forward to? Let us know down below!
