Get ready for an exciting FA Cup showdown as Arsenal takes on Wigan Athletic!
The Magic of the Cup
While Wigan Athletic's recent form in League One has left them battling relegation, their FA Cup journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The 2013 champions have defied the odds, defeating Championship hopefuls Preston North End in the last round. But here's where it gets controversial: Wigan's league form has seen them sack their manager, Ryan Lowe, after just 11 months. Now, Glenn Whelan and Graham Barrow step in as interim managers, facing the daunting task of leading the team against Arsenal.
A Tale of Two Managers
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, is excited for the challenge, emphasizing the team's opportunity to make history in this competition. On the other side, Graham Barrow, Wigan's interim manager, believes fear can be a positive motivator for players. He draws inspiration from top athletes who embrace nerves, using them as a driving force.
Team News and Tactics
Arsenal's Mikel Merino remains sidelined with a foot injury, while Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard, who missed the Sunderland match, returned as substitutes against Brentford. William Saliba missed that game due to illness, and Kai Havertz picked up a knock. For Wigan, there are no reported injuries following their 2-1 defeat to Reading.
Adrian Clarke, in the official matchday programme, highlights Wigan's tactical unpredictability under their former manager, Ryan Lowe. Lowe experimented with different formations, making it difficult to predict Wigan's approach. Wigan's strength lies in their dynamic right flank, led by Scottish winger Fraser Murray, who has produced an impressive 113 crosses in open play this season. Despite their low possession style, Wigan has technical players like former Arsenal academy star Matt Smith, who can provide a passing threat.
FA Cup History and Stats
This fixture marks the first meeting between the two teams since the 2013/14 FA Cup semi-final, the only previous encounter. Arsenal won that match 4-2 on penalties, with current boss Mikel Arteta scoring in the shootout. Wigan has a poor away record against Arsenal, losing 10 of their 11 away games in all competitions.
Arsenal is aiming to reach the FA Cup fifth round for the first time since 2019/20, when they lifted the trophy. Wigan, on the other hand, has won their last six away matches in the FA Cup, conceding just once. If they win here, it would be an incredible feat, marking the fifth time in FA Cup history that a team has achieved seven consecutive away wins (first round onwards).
All four of Arsenal's goals in their 4-1 win over Portsmouth in the third round came from set pieces, showcasing their dead-ball prowess.
Match Officials and Live Coverage
Tim Robinson will referee the FA Cup fourth-round contest, assisted by Ian Hussin and Marc Perry. There will be no VAR for this match at the Emirates Stadium.
Get ready for the preview show, Live from N5, where you can catch up on the latest team news, tactics, and special guest appearances before the big game. Find out how to watch the FA Cup clash on TV, no matter where you are in the world.
And this is the part most people miss: the memories of Wembley. It's been 12 years since Arsenal and Wigan faced off in the FA Cup, with Arsenal clinching their first FA Cup title in nine years after a dramatic semi-final win on penalties.
So, who will prevail in this highly anticipated FA Cup clash? Will Arsenal continue their cup journey, or will Wigan cause an upset? Join the discussion and share your predictions in the comments!
