4 things to know about FA Cup final

The bookmakers have Arsenal as a huge favourite. While they have already planned its parade route through north London for Sunday, Hull will be reminded that they’ve never won a major trophy in their 110-year history. But, as last year’s final proved—when Wigan shocked Manchester City— nothing can be taken for granted. Here are four things to know:

Arsenal’s Near Misses

Arsenal have reached the Champions League final in 2006, the semi-finals in 2009, the League Cup final in 2011 and have been in great positions in a number of Premier League seasons. They have failed to win each time. The list of near misses goes on, but could soon be at an end if Arsenal handles the weight of expectation this time round.

Hull Seeks First Major Trophy

If Arsenal’s time without silverware is often described as a ‘drought’, spare a thought for Hull. The club’s only trophy came in 1966 when it won England’s third-tier title and its best run in a cup competition came back in 1930 when the team reached the FA Cup semifinals. “Nobody expects us to win it. I’d rather be the underdog. People are delighted when the underdog wins—I don’t think many people want Arsenal to win,” said Hull’s David Meyler.

Routes to Final

If Arsenal does go on to win a record 11th FA Cup, the team has done it the hard way this season. The Gunners had to play Tottenham as well as Liverpool and Everton before the semi-finals, when they came from a goal behind against Wigan with eight minutes left to win on penalties. Hull, conversely, has played only one fellow Premier League opponent— Sunderland in the quarterfinals.

Wenger’s Contract

Out of contract this summer, Wenger says the outcome of Saturday’s match will have no bearing on whether he decides to sign on for at least another year. Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis said in January that Wenger would be extending his stay at the club but the longer the Frenchman goes without putting pen to paper, the more concerned Arsenal fans will get.