Referee appointment confirmed for Man Utd v Man City FA Cup final

Andy Madley has been appointed as the referee for this year’s all-Manchester FA Cup final.

It’s the second season in a row that Manchester United and Manchester City will meet in the showpiece Wembley occasion, with an Ilkay Gundogan double securing victory for Pep Guardiola’s side last year.

It was a similar outcome when the sides last locked horns in the Premier League, when City won 3-1 in March thanks to goals from Phil Foden and Erling Haaland. Madley also took charge of that game, his only previous Manchester derby, and awarded just one booking across 90 minutes.

The 40-year-old has been selected by the FA to oversee proceedings in the capital on 25 May, along with assistants Harry Lennard and Nick Hopton. Simon Hooper will fulfil the role of fourth official, with Tim Wood operating as his assistant. 

Michael Oliver will be in charge of VAR from Stockley Park, and he’ll be supported by Peter Bankes and Stuart Burt.

Speaking after the announcement was made, Madley described the news as an ‘honour’ and ‘truly humbling.

“When I got the call with the appointment, I'd just got in my car," the referee told the FA. “I have to be honest, I heard 'FA Cup final' and missed the rest of the call. I was stunned - it's an absolute delight and honour to receive this appointment.

"Domestically, it's the biggest game of any referee's career - the one we all dream of when we complete the referee course. I can only imagine what it will be like to lead the two teams out in front of a sold-out Wembley. To receive this appointment off the back of my hard work this season is truly humbling.”

Madley’s last major final was the 2019 League One Play-Off final between Charlton Athletic and Sunderland. The Yorkshireman has also overseen three City matches this season: March’s derby, a 1-1 draw with Chelsea the month before, and City’s 3-1 win at the London Stadium in September.

He has, however, sent off a City player this season when he dismissed Matheus Nunes while playing for Wolverhampton Wanderers in the 4-1 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion. Crystal Palace’s Jordan Ayew is the only other player who the official has dismissed in 22 top-flight games this term.

Meanwhile, Madley was the man in middle for United’s home wins against Brentford and West Ham United this season, but was also on duty when Erik ten Hag’s side were beaten 7-0 at Anfield in March 2023.