De Bruyne Bows Out as Palace Chase Historic Win in FA Cup Clash

As the Premier League winds down with few surprises, all eyes turn to the dueling narratives of Saturday's FA Cup Final. 

Will Kevin de Bruyne's time at Manchester City end in glory or heartbreak? Or will Crystal Palace seize their chance to make history?  It's a story of redemption vs destiny, and for once, City aren't a sure thing.

For Manchester City, it's an opportunity to salvage their season and avoid ending up trophy-less for the first time since 2016/17.

Teams no longer fear playing City and their collapse has baffled both fans and at times even their legendary manager, Pep Guardiola.

For the neutral fan, it's been enjoyable to watch. Predictability is bad for the EPL brand and Manchester City's fall from grace has put a pep in others' step, pun intended.

Bookies Back de Bruyne's Farewell

City's form has improved in the latter part of the season and a top five finish now seems likely. But as the 0-0 tie with bottom club Southampton last weekend showed, they are still vulnerable.

With Haaland back from injury and new signing Omar Marmoush banging in goals, City are the firm favorites at -275 with bookmakers (Palace are +220). The outcome may depend on Palace defender Marc Guéhi's ability to cope with the pair.

It'll be an especially emotional day for Kevin de Bruyne. The inspirational playmaker has been key to City's success but will be leaving the club at the end of the season. Will he be packing a winner's medal in his suitcase?

Crystal Palace will be trying to ruin De Bruyne's farewell. Palace last reached the final in 2016. They have never won the FA Cup. They will surely never have a better chance.

Manager Oliver Glasner has done a remarkable job with a team that has a wage bill one third of Manchester City's. After a slow start to the season they've started to click into gear.

Will Eze Spoil the Party?

A huge reason for Palace's rise has been the form of their star player Eberechi Eze. After some injury niggles he's hitting top gear at just the right time. He has five goals and three assists in his last ten games. And he scored this screamer in the semi-final.