Should we go back to the old system? Rotating semi-finals at neutral grounds like Villa Park, Old Trafford, and the Etihad? That would be cheaper for fans and probably louder. But then you lose that "wow" factor of walking under the arch.
FA Cup semi-final draw in full as Man City face Brighton at Wembley
Or maybe we keep it at Wembley but fix the pricing? (Laughs in corporate.) Yeah, right. That’s like asking a fox to guard the hen house. The FA loves the revenue, and sponsors love the glitz.
So, is it worth it?
The answer, like most things in football, is it depends. If you’re a neutral watching from your sofa, it’s perfect. You get the spectacle without the £80 train fare. If you’re a fan from Wigan or Coventry, it’s a dream come true—until you realise your seat is behind a pillar and the concourse beer costs £9.
Here’s my take: I love it, but I also hate it. It’s like having a kebab at 3 AM. You know it’s not the wisest choice, but the memory is just too good to regret. The FA Cup semi-final at Wembley is the same—a flawed, expensive, but absolutely unforgettable experience.
So, to answer the question: yes, it belongs there. But only if you bring your own sandwiches and a sense of humour about the parking. See you under the arch—but don’t complain when you’re stuck in traffic for an hour.
