Manchester United's Under-18s have expressed clear disappointment after the FA confirmed the venue for this season's FA Youth Cup final against Manchester City.
Earlier this week, it was announced that the eagerly anticipated Manchester derby will take place at City's Joie Stadium on Thursday, May 14, with a 7 PM BST kick-off, broadcast live on TNT Sports 1. United booked their place in the final after a 2-0 semi-final victory over Crystal Palace, with goals from JJ Gabriel and Chido Obi.
This marks the first time since 1986 that the two Manchester rivals have met in an FA Youth Cup final—a historic occasion that many expected would be staged at the Etihad Stadium. However, an agreement on a suitable date at City's main ground could not be reached between the clubs.
The Joie Stadium, primarily used for City's youth and women's teams, has a capacity of 7,000 spectators. While the venue is a professional facility, it falls short of the tradition associated with the FA Youth Cup—a tournament that has long been a showcase for the next generation of English football talent.
According to reports, Darren Fletcher's United side are "disappointed" at the decision. The two clubs were in prolonged talks over the venue but ultimately could not meet the FA's deadline to play the game by May 9. The FA itself reportedly proposed moving the final to Old Trafford as a potential alternative.
Sources close to United's Under-18s have expressed their disapproval, noting that it is customary for the Youth Cup final—the most prestigious competition in academy football—to be hosted at a first-team stadium. In fact, City are the only club this century to use their academy ground for such a high-profile event.
For young players dreaming of a first-team future, the stage matters. The FA Youth Cup final is more than just a trophy—it's a rite of passage, a moment where future stars get their first taste of a big-match atmosphere. While the football itself will undoubtedly be competitive, the venue decision has added an extra layer of intrigue to an already intense Manchester derby.