Cracks in the empire? Chelsea aim to punish vulnerable City at Wembley

For all the noise surrounding Manchester City and Pep Guardiola's future, today's FA Cup final arrives at a fascinating moment for both finalists. City are still chasing silverware and fighting to keep their Premier League crown alive, but uncertainty has started to creep into a club that for years looked untouchable.

As things stand, there has been no confirmation from Guardiola or the club over whether the Spaniard will remain beyond this season, despite the fact that he still has one year left on his contract. Behind the scenes, the Cityzens are desperate for him to stay, although reports in England suggest there is growing uncertainty over whether he will actually see out that final year.

Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has already been mentioned as one of the possible successors.

Pep, however, continues to publicly insist he still loves life at the Etihad. And with good reason. Since arriving, he has transformed City into one of the most dominant teams Europe has ever seen, collecting 19 trophies, including six Premier League titles, the Champions League and two FA Cups.

When asked whether his era should already be considered greatness, Guardiola jokingly flexed his arm before replying:

"Yeah, of course. Nineteen titles in 10 years is not bad."

Still, even for a serial winner like Guardiola, this season has felt different. City remain in the title race, sitting two points behind Arsenal with two league matches left, but the aura of complete control has faded at times. Injuries, inconsistency and questions over the squad's future have created a sense that this Wembley showdown could represent both another trophy opportunity - and perhaps the beginning of a transition.

If Alvarez doesn’t come, Joao Pedro will – Barca ready to “save” the Brazilian

Chelsea, meanwhile, arrive with momentum, energy and far less pressure. On one side stands Guardiola's dynasty, still standing but showing small cracks. On the other is a Chelsea team desperate to prove a new era is finally beginning at Stamford Bridge.

Wembley now offers both clubs a chance to define their season - but possibly their future as well.

FA CUP - FINAL

Saturday

17.00: (4.70) Chelsea (4.35) Man City (1.70)

***odds are subject to change***