Manchester City’s quest for silverware ended in disappointment once again as they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final. Despite dominating possession and fielding a strong starting lineup, Pep Guardiola’s men failed to find the cutting edge needed in decisive moments.
Two players stood out for the wrong reasons — Omar Marmoush, whose missed penalty denied City a route back into the match, and Jeremy Doku, whose underwhelming display added to his season-long struggles. While Marmoush is still settling into life at the Etihad, Doku’s performance raised deeper concerns about his future at the club.
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Marmoush Misses His Moment
When Manchester City were awarded a penalty in the first half, it was not Erling Haaland but January signing Omar Marmoush who stepped up. The Egyptian forward, brought in from Eintracht Frankfurt, faced immense pressure after a long VAR check confirmed the foul. Unfortunately, his effort lacked precision — Dean Henderson guessed correctly and made the save.
Marmoush never got another chance to make an impact. Substituted in the 76th minute, he exited the match having missed what was likely City’s best opportunity to turn the game around. His overall Premier League contribution since arriving has shown glimpses of potential, but the missed penalty on such a big stage will not be easily forgotten.
While he may yet prove a valuable asset, this performance raised valid questions about his readiness to perform under pressure for a team with City’s expectations.
Doku’s Disappointing Numbers
Unlike Marmoush, Jeremy Doku has had an entire season to make his case — and the numbers don’t flatter him. With just six goals in 35 appearances across all competitions, the Belgian winger has struggled to offer the kind of decisive output expected at Manchester City.
Doku’s showing in the FA Cup final was another example of his inconsistency. He failed to create a single big chance, registered just one shot on target, and often looked unsure in the final third. The final whistle came moments after a wild effort from Doku, who cut inside and dragged his shot far wide — an ending that seemed to sum up not just his performance, but his season.
Statistically, Marmoush has been more productive in fewer games, casting further doubt on Doku’s ability to maintain a starting role moving forward.
Why Pep Guardiola Must Make a Ruthless Decision
Manchester City do not build teams around potential — they build them around results. With expectations of winning every competition they enter, there is little room for attackers who cannot consistently deliver goals or create danger.
Doku’s return this season does not meet the level required for a club of this stature. His decision-making, end product, and overall impact fall short of the high standard set by his teammates and his manager. When even a mid-season arrival like Marmoush shows similar or better numbers in fewer matches, it’s clear that something needs to change.
This summer provides an opportunity for Guardiola to refresh his forward line. Offloading Doku could free up space for a more reliable contributor — someone who thrives under pressure and turns chances into goals.
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Conclusion
The loss to Crystal Palace was not just about one missed penalty or one wayward shot — it was about a pattern of underperformance that has plagued parts of City’s squad this season.
Omar Marmoush’s miss was unfortunate, but it was Jeremy Doku’s season-long inconsistency that painted a clearer picture of what needs to change. City’s ambitions won’t tolerate hesitation or wastefulness in the final third.
For Pep Guardiola, the message is clear: tough decisions must be made this summer. If Manchester City are to bounce back, they need forwards who can make a difference — not just occupy space on the pitch.
