The FA Cup third round draw has produced an electrifying matchup as defending champions Manchester United will face their Premier League rivals Arsenal in what promises to be a blockbuster encounter. This highly anticipated clash is one of the standout ties of the round, where the Premier League and Championship clubs enter the competition. The matches are set to take place over the weekend of January 11 and 12, 2025.
Manchester United, under the stewardship of Ruben Amorim, will aim to retain the FA Cup title they clinched last May. Meanwhile, Arsenal will look to end their own silverware drought by delivering a strong performance in the competition.
Premier League Giants Set for a Showdown
The draw has pitted two of England’s most successful clubs against each other. Both Manchester United and Arsenal have a storied history in the FA Cup, with United boasting 13 titles and Arsenal holding the record with 14. Their third-round clash is set to reignite one of English football’s fiercest rivalries.
For Ruben Amorim, this will be his first FA Cup campaign as Manchester United’s manager. Having taken over the reins from Erik ten Hag earlier this season, Amorim has quickly steadied the ship, and the Red Devils are showing promise under his leadership. A win over Arsenal could further solidify his growing reputation among the club’s fanbase.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, on the other hand, have been a formidable force in recent years. After consecutive top-four finishes in the Premier League, the Gunners have strengthened their squad and will hope to carry their league form into the FA Cup.
Liverpool Begin Their Cup Journey Against Accrington Stanley
Table-topping Liverpool, under the management of Arne Slot, will host League Two side Accrington Stanley in a tie that is expected to be a straightforward outing for the Reds. Slot’s side has been relentless in the Premier League, and the Dutch manager will look to maintain Liverpool’s momentum as they target a domestic double.
Liverpool’s dominance this season has been underlined by their impressive performances against top opposition, but the FA Cup presents an opportunity for the squad’s fringe players to shine. Facing Accrington Stanley, the Reds are overwhelming favorites to progress to the fourth round.
Manchester City Face Salford City in a Unique Encounter
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, currently grappling with a rough patch of form, will take on Salford City in a fascinating matchup. Salford, part-owned by Manchester United legends including Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, and Paul Scholes, will relish the opportunity to go head-to-head with the reigning Premier League champions.
For Guardiola, the FA Cup presents a chance to turn around City’s fortunes. The Catalan manager has won the competition twice during his tenure and will hope to start this campaign with a convincing victory.
The draw for the #EmiratesFACup third round is complete
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) December 2, 2024
Non-League Representation
Tamworth and Dagenham & Redbridge are flying the flag for non-league football in this year’s FA Cup third round. Tamworth will face a daunting test against Tottenham Hotspur, while Dagenham & Redbridge are set to play Championship side Millwall. Both teams will be looking to cause major upsets and extend their fairy-tale runs in the competition.
Other Key Matchups
The third-round draw has also delivered several intriguing fixtures. Aston Villa will host West Ham in an all-Premier League clash, promising high-stakes drama. Meanwhile, Brighton will travel to Carrow Road to face Norwich City, and Chelsea will entertain Morecambe at Stamford Bridge.
Other notable ties include Newcastle United’s home game against National League outfit Bromley, Leeds United hosting Harrogate Town in an all-Yorkshire affair, and Brentford taking on Plymouth Argyle.
Full FA Cup Third Round Draw
- Southampton vs Swansea City
- Arsenal vs Manchester United
- Exeter City vs Oxford United
- Leyton Orient vs Derby County
- Reading vs Burnley
- Aston Villa vs West Ham
- Norwich City vs Brighton
- Manchester City vs Salford City
- Millwall vs Dagenham & Redbridge
- Liverpool vs Accrington Stanley
- Bristol City vs Wolves
- Preston North End vs Charlton Athletic
- Chelsea vs Morecambe
- Middlesbrough vs Blackburn Rovers
- Bournemouth vs West Brom
- Mansfield Town vs Wigan Athletic
- Tamworth vs Tottenham
- Hull City vs Doncaster Rovers
- Sunderland vs Stoke City
- Leicester City vs QPR
- Brentford vs Plymouth Argyle
- Coventry City vs Sheffield Wednesday
- Newcastle United vs Bromley
- Everton vs Peterborough United
- Wycombe Wanderers vs Portsmouth
- Birmingham City vs Lincoln City
- Leeds United vs Harrogate Town
- Nottingham Forest vs Luton Town
- Sheffield United vs Cardiff City
- Ipswich Town vs Bristol Rovers
- Fulham vs Watford
- Crystal Palace vs Stockport County
What’s at Stake?
The FA Cup remains one of the most cherished trophies in English football. For many teams, it provides a chance to create unforgettable moments and memories for their supporters. For Premier League sides, it offers an opportunity to add silverware to their cabinet and restore glory to their seasons.
The third round marks the start of the competition for top-flight and Championship clubs, and the draw has set the stage for high drama and excitement. With ties scheduled for early January, fans across the country can look forward to a thrilling weekend of football.
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