The 2022-23 final between and at has been moved to 3pm for the first time in 12 years.
The Metropolitan Police raised concerns over the Football Association’s preference for the match to be played in the evening as it is classed as a high-risk fixture, with the Manchester clubs due to meet in the final for the first time ever.
According to the , the FA accepted police advice despite a later kick-off time being better suited to both broadcasters and advertisers, meaning the final will revert to its more traditional kick-off time of 3pm for the first time since 2011.
Another reason for the match being pushed back is that there is a key horse racing event on the same day – the Epsom Derby – with ITV, the FA and the Jockey Club keen to avoid a clash.
Epsom Derby coverage is due to begin at 4.30pm on ITV on June 3 but will actually start once the broadcaster’s coverage of the FA Cup final has concluded.
The FA Cup final is also being shown on the BBC, with the two broadcasters sharing the television rights.
The showdown between United and City is set to be an absolute blockbuster, with the Red Devils attempting to win their second trophy of the season after lifting the Carabao Cup in February.
Erik ten Hag’s side also have the chance to deny City a historic treble with Pep Guardiola’s team still fighting for the Premier League and Champions League.
United are currently the only English side in history to win a treble – achieved in 1999 – and are desperate to block their Manchester rivals from joining them.
City are locked in a Premier League title battle with Arsenal, who they host at the Etihad on Wednesday night, and face Real Madrid in the Champions League last four.
