FA Cup Fourth Round Draw Results: Arsenal Faces Former Champions, Aston Villa Clashes with Newcastle

The 2025/26 FA Cup fourth round draw produced many intriguing ties, as Premier League clubs are forced into early encounters, highlighted by Arsenal meeting Wigan and Aston Villa taking on Newcastle.

The 2025/26 Emirates FA Cup fourth round draw took place at Anfield on the evening of January 12, just before the match between Liverpool and Barnsley. Two former FA Cup winners, Steve McManaman and Joleon Lescott, were invited to conduct the draw, creating a dignified yet eagerly anticipated atmosphere. The results quickly captured fans’ attention due to several highly competitive fixtures.

The highlight of the fourth round is undoubtedly the showdown between Aston Villa and Newcastle United. This is one of the two all-Premier League ties at this stage, promising intense competition early in the tournament. Premier League matches at this phase, ensuring tension from an early round.

Aston Villa will enjoy home advantage, but Newcastle, with their balanced squad and energetic style, are considered a genuine challenge. This match is likely to have a significant impact on both teams’ FA Cup ambitions amid an increasingly congested domestic schedule.

Another notable fixture is Arsenal hosting Wigan Athletic. Although Wigan no longer competes in the top tier, they remain former FA Cup champions and always pose an unpredictable threat in this competition. For Arsenal, it’s a favorable opportunity to advance, but they cannot underestimate this experienced cup side.

In other ties, Chelsea will travel to Hull City, a club closely associated with manager Liam Rosenior’s past. Meanwhile, Manchester City will await the winner of Salford City versus Swindon Town, a relatively comfortable draw for the reigning Premier League champions.

The fairy tale story from the previous round continues with Macclesfield. The sixth-tier side that shocked Crystal Palace will host Brentford at home. This is viewed as a well-deserved reward for Macclesfield’s extraordinary effort and a stern test for the Premier League representatives.

Scheduled fixtures for the FA Cup fourth round are set for the weekend of February 14 and 15, 2026. Each team progressing will receive £127,000 from the prize fund. Detailed scheduling will be confirmed soon after the FA consults with clubs, broadcasters, and local authorities, promising an emotional and surprising round.

FA Cup Fourth Round Draw Results