FA Cup Fourth Round Draw Delivers Exciting Fixtures and Fairy Tale Matchups

Historic Draw Sets Stage for Valentine’s Weekend Football

The Emirates FA Cup fourth round proper draw has been made for the 2025-26 season. The FA Cup fourth round draw is scheduled for Monday January 12, 2026. It will be held ahead of the third-round tie between Liverpool and Barnsley, which is the final match of the round. Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist will present the ceremony, with Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard and ex-Chelsea star Joe Cole conducting the draw.

Giant-Killers Rewarded with Premier League Tests

The draw has produced several captivating storylines, none more compelling than the continued fairy tale of Macclesfield. Sixth-tier giant killers Macclesfield have been handed another home tie against Premier League opposition after being drawn to face Brentford in the fourth round of the Emirates FA Cup. Manchester United were one of the marquee casualties from the third round weekend, tumbling out of the competition at the hands of Brighton.

Top Clubs Learn Their Fate

There will be two all-Premier League ties in the fourth round, with Liverpool hosting Brighton & Hove Albion and Aston Villa welcoming Newcastle United to Villa Park. Meanwhile, league leaders Arsenal are at home to Wigan Athletic, while Manchester City – runners-up to Crystal Palace in last season’s FA Cup final – are at home to Salford City or Swindon Town. Chelsea have been drawn away to Hull City.

When Will the Matches Take Place?

There will be 16 ties at this stage of the competition, which will be scheduled across the weekend of Saturday 14 February 2026. The Valentine’s Day weekend promises to deliver romance and drama in equal measure as the competition narrows to the final 16 teams. There will be no replay if a match ends in a draw after 90 minutes. All ties will go to extra-time and a penalty shootout if required.

Significance for English Football

The fourth round draw underscores the unique appeal of the FA Cup, where lower-league teams can test themselves against England’s elite clubs. With several non-league and lower division sides still in the competition, the tournament continues to provide opportunities for historic upsets and memorable moments that define English football culture.