As “horrific” seasons go, Manchester City’s could still end on a high note. While English soccer’s most dominant force for the past decade has been deposed of its Premier League crown, it could still end the campaign with the FA Cup and the title of world champion.

“This is why I love football,” Glasner enthused. Pep Guardiola would no doubt agree as he steps out onto the Wembley pitch before Saturday's final between Palace and his Manchester City, having this week described the FA Cup as the most “beautiful domestic cup competition in the world”.