As the FA Cup reaches its decisive quarter-final stage, anticipation is building across England, with several of the country’s biggest clubs still firmly in contention.
Former England international Joe Cole has offered his verdict on how the competition might unfold — and his prediction may raise a few eyebrows.
Despite having strong ties to multiple clubs still involved, Cole has admitted he does not expect any of his former sides to go all the way this season. Instead, his instincts point toward a familiar dominant force in English football.
Cole backs Manchester City to go all the way
The quarter-final line-up features an intriguing mix of elite Premier League sides and underdogs hoping to defy the odds.
West Ham United, Chelsea, and Liverpool — all clubs Cole once represented — remain in the competition. They are joined by Manchester City, Arsenal, Leeds United, Southampton, and lower-league hopefuls Port Vale.
Yet, when assessing the field, Cole’s confidence lies with the reigning powerhouse managed by Pep Guardiola.
City’s recent success, including their victory over Arsenal in the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley, appears to have strengthened his belief that they can secure another domestic honour.
“I’ve just got a sneaky feeling for Joe [Hart]’s mob [Manchester City],” Cole said, suggesting that City’s blend of experience and winning mentality could prove decisive in the latter stages of the competition.
City ability to navigate high-pressure matches and maintain form across multiple competitions has often set them apart from their rivals. With a squad boasting depth and tactical flexibility, they remain one of the most formidable teams in Europe.
However, Cole’s prediction is notable given his personal connections. Having played for both Chelsea and Liverpool — clubs with rich FA Cup histories — his reluctance to back them underlines just how highly he rates City’s current level.
Arsenal lead betting odds but City close behind
While Cole’s instincts favour Manchester City, bookmakers continue to regard Arsenal as the team to beat.
The Premier League leaders have been in impressive form domestically, and their odds — typically ranging between 7/4 and 2/1 — reflect their strong position heading into the quarter-finals.
Arsenal’s resurgence this season has been built on a combination of youthful energy and tactical discipline. Their performances have drawn widespread praise, and many believe they have the momentum required to lift the FA Cup once again.
Manchester City, meanwhile, sit just behind Arsenal in the betting markets. Given their pedigree and recent trophy success, few would be surprised to see them go on another deep cup run.
Chelsea and Liverpool are also considered among the leading contenders, although both sides have experienced inconsistent campaigns, which may explain why they are not viewed as outright favourites.
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Further down the list, Leeds United and Southampton are seen as outsiders. Both clubs have shown glimpses of quality but would likely need to produce exceptional performances to overcome the stronger teams remaining in the competition.
As for Port Vale, the League One side are widely regarded as long shots, with expectations low that they can cause a major upset at this stage.
Attention will also turn to a standout quarter-final clash as Manchester City host Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium.
The fixture promises to be one of the highlights of the round, pitting two of England’s most successful modern teams against each other.
Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has weighed in on that encounter, predicting a narrow victory for the home side.
He believes City will edge the contest 2-1, a result that would not only send them into the semi-finals but also reinforce their credentials as potential winners of the tournament.
