If Manchester United loses to Man City this Saturday, it might feel like the end of an era.
The stakes couldn't be greater as they try to stop their noisy neighbors from making the biggest noise imaginable with another move towards the Treble. Erik ten Hag is busy preparing his team for their final match in a grueling season.
For a specific group of players, it might be their final game for the club as they know they must perform at their absolute peak if they hope to defeat a team who ended 14 points ahead of them in the Premier League this season.
Ten Hag has already accomplished his main objectives of making the Champions League and securing a trophy during his first season, but there is no getting around the fact that this weekend's game may determine the season's overall success.
Whatever happens, Ten Hag should be commended for improving standards and expectations so swiftly in such a short period of time. This accomplishment is all the more remarkable when you consider the challenging conditions Ten Hag has had to work in.
It's crucial to keep in mind that the United manager has only been in the position for a little over a year, and his first season was always going to be one of change and transformation as he sought to mold the team into his vision.
After this weekend, when several of them may say goodbye to the United supporters, it will be much obvious whether Ten Hag has the group of players that are truly aligned with his goals for the team or not.
Old Trafford is poised for another summer of transformation, but the club is fully aware that in order to satisfy Financial Fair Play standards while also overhauling the team as much as they wish, their transfer budget will need to be strengthened by player sales.
It's possible that up to eight members of the matchday squad will never play for the team again, although it appears likely that a number of them will play for the club one last time.
Wout Weghorst is scheduled to leave after his problematic loan period, but given Anthony Martial's most recent injury setback, he may play a significant role at Wembley.
The French forward himself may have already played his last game for the team against Fulham the last time around. However, United is willing to transfer him this summer if they can first find a solution to their striker shortage.
Marcel Sabitzer, who has also gone through a bit of a rocky time at the club, required a decision. The Austrian has been a step up from the other squad alternatives, but it is still unclear whether he possesses the caliber that Ten Hag hopes to add this summer.
Speaking of those roster choices, Fred may be donning a United jersey for the last time as well. Despite several outstanding performances, the Brazilian midfielder is the only outfielder who has been included to every matchday squad this season. However, the club is willing to transfer him in order to make room for a younger player in his position.
Harry Maguire, United's club captain, is slated to quit the team this summer after falling down the pecking order, thus his farewell will likely be the most notable.
Maguire will be hoping to end his career with the team by winning another trophy at Wembley, but he is expected to sit out the final and will have to settle with a cameo for his parting shot.
Additionally, it's possible that Aaron Wan-Bissaka's appearance for United will be his last. They were willing to sell him last year and might still do so if the right offer comes up, but after his recent comeback, they are not thought to be actively trying to do so.
In addition to Brandon Williams and Anthony Elanga from the academy, who will likely be moved on this summer, Jack Butland may sit on the bench for the final time before the loan portion of his contract expires. But the fact remains that United won't be able to purchase till they bid farewell.
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