By Alex Fredrick
Manchester City concluded the 2024–25 season without a major trophy, following a 1–0 defeat to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday. This marks the second consecutive FA Cup final loss for City and their first trophyless season since 2016–17.
Crystal Palace secured their first major trophy in the club’s 120-year history, thanks to a 16th-minute goal by Eberechi Eze, who volleyed in a cross from Daniel Muñoz. Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson was instrumental in the victory, making several crucial saves, including a penalty stop against Omar Marmoush in the 36th minute.
Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Manchester City failed to find the back of the net. Erling Haaland and debutant Claudio Echeverri were among those denied by Henderson’s heroics. City’s inability to convert opportunities underscored a season marked by missed chances and underperformance.
The defeat in the FA Cup final capped a disappointing season for City, who also lost the Premier League title to Liverpool and were eliminated from the Champions League by Real Madrid. Their only silverware came in the form of the Community Shield, won at the season’s outset.
Manager Pep Guardiola faces a challenging offseason, as the club looks to regroup and address the shortcomings that led to this uncharacteristic lack of success. The upcoming transfer window and preseason preparations will be critical as City aims to return to their winning ways in the 2025–26 campaign.
