Van Nistelrooy Seeks FA Cup Upset as Rashford Eyes Redemption with Villa

Posted : 07 February 2025

Ruud van Nistelrooy returns to Manchester United this weekend as his struggling Leicester City side aims to cause an FA Cup upset. United, the defending champions, will open the fourth round at home against the Foxes on Friday. Other key fixtures include Aston Villa facing Tottenham and Brighton hosting Chelsea, while Birmingham City, co-owned by former NFL legend Tom Brady, eyes an upset against Newcastle. Meanwhile, Manchester City will be determined to avoid embarrassment when they visit third-tier Leyton Orient in a tricky encounter.

Marcus Rashford is seeking redemption after a turbulent exit from Manchester United and could make his Aston Villa debut against Tottenham on Sunday. The forward was sidelined by United manager Ruben Amorim from mid-December onwards, despite the team's struggles. Rashford has endured a disappointing season, netting only four Premier League goals and seven in total.

However, since he was not involved in United’s third-round victory over Arsenal, he remains eligible to feature for Villa in the FA Cup. With Jhon Durán departing in the transfer window and Ollie Watkins doubtful due to injury, Rashford could play a crucial role in Villa’s attack.

Van Nistelrooy, now Leicester's interim boss, is looking for a much-needed distraction from the club’s Premier League struggles as he prepares for a reunion with United. Having served as Erik ten Hag’s assistant before taking temporary charge after Ten Hag’s dismissal, he led United to two home victories over Leicester earlier this season.

However, he was let go once Amorim officially took over. With United losing five of their last six home matches against Premier League opponents, Van Nistelrooy will hope to capitalize on their weaknesses. Yet, Leicester’s form is even worse, with eight losses in their last nine league games, putting them at serious risk of relegation.

Newcastle, buoyed by their 2-0 win over Arsenal that secured a League Cup final spot, will aim to continue their cup success against third-tier Birmingham. The Magpies are desperate to end a 56-year trophy drought and see another cup run as a golden opportunity.

However, their visit to St. Andrew’s presents a potential stumbling block, as Birmingham have been in formidable form, sitting atop League One and going unbeaten in their last 18 matches. The fixture poses a serious test for Newcastle, who must remain focused to avoid a shocking elimination.

Van Nistelrooy Seeks FA Cup Upset as Rashford Eyes Redemption with Villa

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