It’s FA Cup Final Weekend – Let the Magic Begin
It’s been a while since football really stirred the soul. The Premier League has lost some of its edge in recent weeks — Liverpool secured the title what feels like eons ago, European qualification spots are nearly locked in, and the relegated teams were practically decided last season. Even the Women’s Super League wrapped up without much drama, beyond the question of whether Chelsea could maintain their unbeaten streak. That’s why the arrival of the FA Cup finals this weekend feels like a desperately needed shot of old-school football magic. We’re ready — bring on the drama.
Meanwhile, tensions are simmering on the international stage. The annual FIFA Congress — considered the most critical event for ensuring sound governance in global football — faced unexpected unrest. Representatives from 210 member associations gathered in Paraguay, only to be left waiting for Gianni Infantino. The FIFA president was notably late, having instead spent time with Donald Trump in the Middle East. This prompted eight European FIFA Council members to stage a walkout in protest. Lise Klaveness, president of Norway’s football federation, expressed her frustration: “We understand the disappointment of our Paraguayan hosts and now expect transparency from FIFA. Member voices must be respected.” UEFA, for its part, accused Infantino of pursuing “private political interests.” Who could’ve imagined?
Back to the domestic scene, Dutch football has seen quite the shake-up. PSV’s end-of-season surge contrasted sharply with Ajax’s dramatic collapse. Reflecting on it, one reader quoted the age-old saying, “It’s better to be lucky than good,” pointing to the spirited performances of PSV captain Luuk de Jong — not to be confused with Frenkie, Nigel, or Siem.
And speaking of trivia nuggets, a recent mention of Edgeley Park being the closest EFL ground to the River Mersey prompted a nostalgic correction — if you limit the scope to the Premier League, that honor goes to Old Trafford. Of course, this will change once Everton relocates to their new home at Bramley-Moore Dock.
Speaking of Everton, they’ve been everywhere in recent Football Daily editions. From main headlines to quotes, fan letters, and FA Cup trivia, the Toffees have taken center stage in the final week of action at Goodison Park. One reader even noted that Everton featured in nearly every section — a fitting tribute for their historic ground, though they did question why a photo of Lens FC’s stadium was featured instead of Goodison in the Memory Lane segment. “An opportunity missed,” they said. Perhaps only The Knowledge can confirm if a non-Big Six club has ever dominated the newsletter this thoroughly!
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