Manchester United’s FA Cup defence continues with a tricky fifth-round clash against Fulham at Old Trafford today.
Ruben Amorim’s side reached this stage in controversial fashion, edging past Leicester City 2-1 thanks to a late offside goal from Harry Maguire.
With no VAR in operation, the Red Devils benefited from a major stroke of fortune.
Maguire was decisive again in midweek, scoring a late winner in a 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town.
History is on their side. United have won their last 14 FA Cup fifth-round ties since a 2006 exit to Liverpool, a record that gives them a psychological edge.
Fulham have already eliminated Watford and Wigan Athletic and arrive in Manchester with four wins from their last five games in all competitions.
Rodrigo Muniz has been in fine form, scoring twice against Wigan and netting the winner in a 2-1 triumph over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Fulham have also been strong on the road, winning their last four away matches while scoring at least twice in each of their last seven.
United remain the last team to keep Fulham from scoring away from home, shutting them out on the opening weekend of the season.
They also secured a narrow 1-0 win at Craven Cottage and famously defeated Fulham in the 2022-23 FA Cup quarter-finals.
Injuries remain a concern for Amorim. Alejandro Garnacho is expected to be fit despite suffering a knock against Ipswich, while no new players are set to return.
Amorim has played down talk of issues with Garnacho. “He came to my office,” he said. “It is not an issue, but I told him that at Manchester United, perception is important.”
United’s inconsistency this season leaves them vulnerable, but they have a strong FA Cup pedigree.
However, Fulham are in form and will fancy their chances of causing an upset.
