There could be a combination of factors that would mean a defeat for Tony Pulis' side at Eastlands would boost their chances of qualifying for next season's Europa League.
If Stoke were to lose the final, they could still qualify for next season's Europa League if City were to finish in the top four in the league.
That would see City go into the Champions League and mean they would not need the FA Cup's Europa League place, which would go to the Potters. Tottenham, who are scrapping with Manchester City for a top-four place, want the date changed.
Coates told the Sentinel: "The whole issue is a storm in a teacup.
"Anybody who knows football and knows Stoke City will know we would never go into a game not trying to win - not least because there is a lot of money riding on where a club finishes in the Premier League."
Source: PA
Source: PA