Excelsior Virton vs Genk - Cup

A fascinating Cup chapter awaits on October 17, 2026 when Excelsior Virton take on Genk at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. Michael Carrick spoke to the media in Spain on Monday ahead of Man United's Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid.

Form and standings can only tell part of the story when Excelsior Virton and Genk cross paths in the Cup, and pride alone should guarantee a contest. Excelsior Virton will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. Man United are still trying to kickstart their season and a Champions League trip to Atletico Madrid doesn't look particularly appealing to a side that are struggling for form.

Set-piece efficiency and transition play often decide fixtures of this nature, and both managers will have been drilling those phases on the training ground. Florian Wirtz lost possession 17 times in Liverpool's 3-0 home defeat to Manchester City, more than any other player.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Fulham midfielder Josh King, and the Premier League side may consider offers above £50 million for the highly rated youngster.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Cup picture. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.