FA Cup Fourth Round Draw: Van Nistelrooy Handed Old Trafford Return; Aston Villa Set To Take On Spurs
Ruud van Nistelrooy will make his return to Old Trafford as Leicester City has been drawn to face his former club, Manchester United, in the FA Cup fourth round. The matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, rekindling memories of van Nistelrooy’s illustrious career at United, where he lifted the FA Cup in 2004.
Van Nistelrooy, who briefly served as interim manager for the Red Devils earlier this season following Erik ten Hag’s departure, now leads the Foxes as they aim to upset the defending champions. Under the guidance of Ruben Amorim, Manchester United began their title defense in dramatic fashion, securing a hard-fought victory over Arsenal in a penalty shootout at the Emirates Stadium. This match was marked by resilience, as United played over an hour with just ten men after Diogo Dalot received a red card.
The draw revealed other intriguing matchups, including Championship bottom club Plymouth Argyle, who will enjoy a home tie against Premier League leaders Liverpool after their stunning upset of Brentford in the previous round. Meanwhile, Manchester City will face either Leyton Orient or Derby County away from home, as they look to maintain their formidable form.
In a series of exciting Premier League clashes, Aston Villa will host Tottenham Hotspur, while Brighton and Hove Albion take on Chelsea. Additionally, Everton and Bournemouth will battle it out in another compelling fixture.
Other notable ties include Nottingham Forest traveling to Exeter City and Newcastle United visiting Birmingham City, while Ipswich Town and Wolverhampton Wanderers will face Championship opposition in Coventry City and Blackburn Rovers, respectively. Fulham’s challenge will see them away against either Mansfield Town or Wigan Athletic.
The draw was presented by Kelly Somers, with the names of Martin Keown and Mark Schwarzer drawing the ties live on BBC One, captivating football fans across the UK.
The fourth round of the FA Cup is set to take place over the weekend of Saturday, February 8, 2025, promising a weekend filled with thrilling football action.
Full FA Cup Fourth Round Draw:
- Manchester United vs. Leicester City
- Leeds United vs. Millwall or Dagenham & Redbridge
- Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Chelsea
- Preston North End or Charlton Athletic vs. Wycombe Wanderers
- Exeter City vs. Nottingham Forest
- Coventry City vs. Ipswich Town
- Blackburn Rovers vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers
- Mansfield Town or Wigan Athletic vs. Fulham
- Birmingham City vs. Newcastle United
- Plymouth Argyle vs. Liverpool
- Everton vs. Bournemouth
- Aston Villa vs. Tottenham Hotspur
- Southampton vs. Burnley
- Leyton Orient or Derby County vs. Manchester City
- Doncaster Rovers vs. Crystal Palace
- Stoke City vs. Cardiff City
