Erik ten Hag’s reaction to Manchester City’s record-breaking FA Cup final opener spoke volumes. The Manchester United manager stood motionless in his technical area after Ilkay Gundogan’s thunderous volley.
City scored inside the first 13 seconds in an astonishing start at Wembley. Gundogan was the first player to get to a Victor Lindelof headed clearance and he unleashed a stunning strike from fully 20 yards out, plucking a volley out of the air.
David de Gea was helpless in the United goal as the City supporters were sent into raptures. Cameras quickly cut to United boss Ten Hag.
He was stood still for a few seconds, just staring into space. Ten Hag then swiftly got a piece of chewing gum from a pack in his hand as City continued their celebrations.
Gundogan’s goal broke the record for the fastest goal in an FA Cup final. Louis Saha held the previous record for Everton in the 2009 final against Chelsea, which the Toffees ended up losing 2-1.
Arsenal legend Lee Dixon was on co-commentary duty for ITV. He heaped praise on Gundogan after his fifth goal in his last six matches.
Dixon said: “Well it caught a lot of people by surprise, me included. It’s just a loose ball and that’s what you do with a loose ball around the box.
“He’s been City’s heartbeat throughout this season. He strikes it like it’s a warm-up. He just puts his laces through it, there’s a little bit of slice on it, watch it go. De Gea is watching it, what a start.”
It was the worst possible start for United and Ten Hag. The Red Devils are aiming to complete the domestic cup double after winning the Carabao Cup in February.
United are also hoping to thwart City in their quest to win a treble. Pep Guardiola’s side have already won the Premier League and face Inter Milan in the Champions League final in Istanbul next Saturday.
Gundogan could be playing his final match in England for City. The German is out of contract at the end of this month.
He has been unable to agree on an extension, with City only prepared to offer the 32-year-old a one-year deal. Arsenal have been linked with signing him on a free transfer.
However, Barcelona are reportedly set to complete a deal. Spanish outlet Sport claims Barca have offered Gundogan a three-year contract to take him to the age of 35.
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