The season's early narrative centered on Arsenal's quest for a "quadruple". However, this quickly changed as they lost 0-2 to Man City in the League Cup final, were eliminated from the FA Cup by Southampton, and conceded their top position in the Premier League.

Erling Haaland scored with a chip shot in Man City's 1-0 victory over Burnley in the 34th round of the Premier League at Turf Moor, Burnley, Lancashire, England on 22/4. Photo: PA

Now, as Man City prepares to face Southampton at Wembley, the more pressing question is whether Pep Guardiola's team can complete a domestic treble - comprising the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup.

While not the same prestigious treble as in 2023, which included the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League, this achievement would still be sufficient to replicate the 2019 feat and underscore Guardiola's legacy, especially as this could be his final season at the Etihad Stadium.

Man City has not maintained dominant form throughout the season. They were ranked 8th in November, trailing Arsenal by 9 points, and struggled to reach the top 8 of the Champions League. However, a turning point arrived mid-season when Guardiola found a winning formula. Since their elimination from the Champions League by Real Madrid, Man City has won 5 consecutive matches, including victories against Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool.

Coach Tonda Eckert has guided Southampton to a flourishing run of 20 unbeaten matches across all competitions, including 16 victories. Photo: PA

Man City's next opponent will be Southampton, currently the team with the most impressive form in England, boasting a 20-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, including a 2-1 victory over Arsenal in the FA Cup quarterfinals. The team was in the relegation zone when coach Tonda Eckert took charge in November, but has since climbed into the Championship play-off spots and still has a chance to secure direct promotion.

Eckert, 33, is one of the most notable young coaches in English football this season. He emerged from youth development systems, having worked at academies such as Cologne, RB Leipzig, and Bayern. Eckert once played youth football alongside Antonio Rudiger before prematurely abandoning his playing career to pursue coaching.

Eckert began his coaching career at 19 while still a student, having participated as an analyst for the German national team at Euro 2012. Subsequently, he gained experience in youth development environments before joining Southampton, initially working within the club's academy.

Southampton players celebrate after defeating Arsenal in the FA Cup quarterfinals.

When coach Will Still was dismissed, Eckert was given the interim opportunity and quickly brought about significant changes in both the team's playing style and spirit. Southampton transformed from a relegation candidate into an energetic squad, employing intelligent pressing and greater effectiveness in transitions.

Eckert himself acknowledged the disparity with Guardiola as they prepared to face each other at Wembley. "It's an honor, but we're not going there for the experience. We're going there to compete," the 33-year-old coach stated.

He emphasized that Southampton would have to accept periods of intense pressure but could not merely defend passively. According to Eckert, the crucial point is to capitalize on rare counter-attacking opportunities and maintain composure during moments of being pressed.

The FA Cup holds special significance for Southampton, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the club's only major trophy. If they continue to surprise Man City, Eckert could become a figure etched into the team's history.

For Man City, the FA Cup is the missing piece in their season's journey. But for Southampton, this is an opportunity to rewrite history - and continue a remarkable journey that has taken them from the relegation zone to the gates of Wembley.

Hong Duy (according to Independent)