Jeremy Doku: Chelsea are dangerous on the counter, FA Cup final will be interesting

Predicted Starting XI: Chelsea vs Manchester City (FA Cup Final)

I’ve learnt to win games, that’s the difference – Doku

Doku was reflective when asked about his growth under Pep Guardiola, pointing to a shift in mentality that goes beyond individual ability.

“I’ve learnt to win games. That’s the difference from where I came,” he said. “In Man City, the demand is higher, more quality players, also they expect you to win every game.

“You play more finals, more of these types of games, always in the race for something. It’s just that different type of pressure I’ve learnt how to cope with. It’s a special club because of the consistency.

“Everyone that works here is working towards the same goal. Everyone is nice, humble, just working. I feel we all just want to maintain the level and try reach our goals.”

The description of City’s internal culture – humble, collective, driven – echoes what Guardiola himself said last week as he shed light on the unique environment at the club – as well as the tributes paid by Aymeric Laporte and Ilkay Gundogan upon their departures. For Doku, that culture has been the making of him as a player.

Doku: Chelsea are dangerous on the counter, Saturday’s final will be interesting

Turning his attention to Saturday’s opponents, Doku was respectful, confident and sharp in his tactical reading of what City can expect at Wembley from a Chelsea side enduring a turbulent campaign by all accounts and with a point to prove.

Pep Guardiola receives Reece James and Chelsea starting XI hints for FA Cup final

“This season, Chelsea haven’t been their standard. I believe they want to end with a trophy, they’ll give it their all. When you look at the squad, they have amazing players,” the 23-year-old added.

“They’ll maybe give us the ball a bit but on counter-attacks, it’ll be very dangerous. We played them recently, we know a bit how they play. It will be interesting.”

Doku also spoke about the experience of playing at Wembley itself – a venue he has now visited on several occasions in the past two seasons.

“It’s a big stadium. Every time you play at Wembley, two crowds. One against you, one for you,” the Belgium international said.

“When you go there, you know it’s because of a big game, a final, semi-final. I’ve played there a couple of times in the last years, it’s always great to play there. The stadium already gives you that atmosphere, but also the occasion.”

What does the FA Cup final mean for City’s season?

Saturday’s final represents City’s chance to complete what would be a remarkable domestic double, having already won the Carabao Cup against Arsenal at Wembley in March.

“Chelsea have been home all week” – Pep Guardiola cites Manchester City disadvantage ahead of FA Cup final

City have lost their last two FA Cup finals to Manchester United and Crystal Palace in 2024 and 2025 respectively – and Guardiola has spoken openly about his desire to put that right, describing Wembley as “the cathedral of English football” ahead of Saturday’s tie.

For Doku, who is yet to win the competition, Saturday is an opportunity to add to a season that has already been the finest of his Manchester City career.