Champagne, beer and music blaring - how Manchester United players reacted outside the dressing room after FA Cup win

"It's a miracle," said the spouse of one of the Manchester United dignitaries. Sir Alex Ferguson was asked for a word to encapsulate the afternoon.

"Fantastic," he purred. Ferguson, David Gill and Avram Glazer had just offered their congratulations to the United players and staff.

Sirs Jim Ratcliffe and Dave Brailsford crossed Ferguson's path en route to the dressing room sanctuary. The protective Svengali Brailsford ushered Ratcliffe away when a reporter asked, "Sir Jim, is Erik staying?" That is the one United-related question Ratcliffe won't answer.

Apart from the crestfallen Rodri, the Manchester City players lingered in the tunnel area for well over an hour, having sportingly observed United's trophy presentation. The statesman-like Kyle Walker was extremely magnanimous when he paused, sweat still glistening on his forehead, in the mixed zone. Walker was pleased for "some of my friends" in the United dressing room.

READ MORE: United to begin season review ahead of Ten Hag decision

READ MORE: Amrabat and Mainoo great - United player ratings vs City

Erling Haaland, with his dampened mane looking like a hybrid of a Die Hard henchman and Prince Vigo, marched through. Kalvin Phillips, in non-club attire, also boarded the City coach.

The most surreal sight was that of the unused Jack Grealish. The only City representative not clad in club garb, Grealish sauntered through in a Gucci tracksuit and flip-flops, his hood pulled up, smiling mischievously.

Pep Guardiola, besuited, stroked his beard, perhaps wondering whether he should have donned his lucky woollen jumper rather than a cup final two-piece.

A Wembley official had reminded us not to request selfies. The odd mixed zone attendant acted more like a fan than a