Who Could Win the FA Cup 2025: Favorites and Predictions

The 2025 FA Cup has reached its quarter-final stage, and the competition is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent years. With several traditional “big six” clubs—Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Manchester United—already eliminated, Manchester City stands as the sole representative of the Premier League’s elite. Meanwhile, mid-table Premier League teams and Championship sides are vying for glory, making this year’s tournament particularly exciting. Below is an analysis of the favorites and key contenders for the FA Cup title.

Favorites to Win

Manchester City

Manchester City remains the clear favorite to win the FA Cup in 2025. Despite a relatively disappointing season in terms of league and European performances, Pep Guardiola’s side has consistently excelled in domestic cup competitions. The FA Cup represents their last opportunity to secure silverware this season, adding significant motivation for the team.

City’s journey in this year’s competition has been marked by resilience. They overcame Plymouth Argyle and Leyton Orient in earlier rounds, showcasing their ability to handle pressure even when trailing. Their upcoming quarter-final against Bournemouth is expected to be a tough test, as Bournemouth previously defeated them in a league match earlier this season. However, City’s squad depth and quality—featuring stars like Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Bernardo Silva—make them strong contenders for the trophy. Bookmakers have placed their odds at 4.5.

Key Contenders

Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton has emerged as one of the standout teams in this year’s FA Cup campaign. Under Roberto De Zerbi’s management, they have developed a reputation for playing attractive football while remaining tactically astute. Brighton’s dramatic fifth-round victory over Newcastle United demonstrated their ability to compete against top-tier teams. They now face Nottingham Forest in the quarter-finals—a fixture that could be pivotal in determining their chances of progressing further.

Brighton’s odds stand at 17, reflecting their potential to surprise bigger clubs. Players such as Kaoru Mitoma and Evan Ferguson have been instrumental in their success this season, making them a team to watch closely.

Fulham

Fulham has been one of the most impressive teams in this year’s FA Cup, eliminating Manchester United in a thrilling penalty shootout during the fifth round. Marco Silva’s side has shown remarkable consistency throughout the season and will face Crystal Palace in the quarter-finals. With odds ranging between 21 and 26, Fulham is considered a dark horse for the title.

Fulham’s strength lies in their defensive organization and attacking flair, with players like Aleksandar Mitrović leading their charge. Their ability to perform under pressure makes them a serious contender for their first-ever FA Cup triumph.

Aston Villa

Aston Villa has quietly built momentum through impressive victories over West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur earlier in the tournament. Unai Emery’s tactical expertise has transformed Villa into a formidable side capable of competing with top teams. Their odds stand at 17, and they face Preston North End—a Championship side—in what appears to be a favorable quarter-final matchup.

Villa’s key players include Ollie Watkins and Douglas Luiz, both of whom have been instrumental in their success this season. If they can maintain their form, Villa could go deep into the competition.

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace has shown resilience throughout their FA Cup campaign and enters their quarter-final against Fulham with confidence following strong performances earlier in the tournament. Roy Hodgson’s experience as manager has provided stability to Palace’s squad, which features talented players like Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise.

With odds of 21 to win outright, Palace will need consistency and composure to overcome Fulham and progress further into the competition.

Quarter-Final Fixtures

The upcoming quarter-finals will play a crucial role in shaping predictions for who might lift the trophy at Wembley Stadium on May 17:

• Manchester City vs Bournemouth: A clash between favorites City and an unpredictable Bournemouth side.
• Brighton vs Nottingham Forest: Brighton looks to continue their strong form against Forest, who recently thrashed them 7-0 in league play.
• Fulham vs Crystal Palace: A London derby that promises excitement as both teams aim for semi-final spots.
• Aston Villa vs Preston North End: Villa faces Championship opposition in what could be their easiest path forward.

While Manchester City remains the favorite due to their experience and squad depth, teams like Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham, Aston Villa, and Crystal Palace all present compelling cases for success. The quarter-finals will provide critical insights into which team might emerge victorious at Wembley Stadium. With many big clubs already eliminated, this year’s FA Cup could deliver one of its most thrilling finales yet.