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The Carabao Cup quarter-final draw has been made. We preview all four ties, including the standout match between Manchester City and Arsenal.
The Carabao Cup quarter-final draw has produced four intriguing ties, headlined by a mouth-watering Manchester City vs Arsenal clash that could serve as a preview of the eventual Premier League title decider. The quarter-finals will be played in the week commencing 15 December, with fixtures to be confirmed once dates are cleared with Premier League scheduling.
The standout tie of the round pairs the two clubs leading the Premier League title race. Guardiola has traditionally treated the League Cup as an opportunity to rotate, though with Arsenal as opponents and a Wembley final in sight, he may think twice. Arteta's attitude to the competition has evolved: having won it in 2024, Arsenal now treat it as a genuine target rather than a secondary priority. If both managers field near-strength sides, this is as good a cup quarter-final as English football can offer.
Prediction: Manchester City, 2-1
Two of the Premier League's form sides in the autumn, with contrasting styles. Tottenham's high-energy attacking football against Newcastle's more direct, Isak-focused approach. The Geordie support will travel in numbers regardless of the mid-week date, and St James' Park would be a ferocious atmosphere if the tie is played at home. The edge may come from depth: Tottenham's squad, stretched by European commitments, has been tested lately.
Prediction: Newcastle United, on penalties
Leicester, promoted back to the Premier League this season, have used the League Cup to field a youthful side — and have beaten two top-half opponents in earlier rounds through sheer organisation and set-piece efficiency. Chelsea, despite being favourites on paper, have dropped points in similar fixtures this season when underestimating promoted opposition. Maresca must guard against complacency.
Prediction: Chelsea, 2-0
Forest's home record in domestic cups is formidable — they have not lost at the City Ground in a cup competition since February 2025. Villa, with European football to manage, may rotate significantly. If Forest start their strongest available side, their defensive structure and set-piece delivery will give them every chance of an upset.
Prediction: Nottingham Forest, 1-0
The Carabao Cup semi-finals are scheduled for the first two weeks of January, with the final at Wembley on 23 February 2027. For clubs outside the top four, winning this competition remains one of the most realistic routes to a trophy — and to European football via the UEFA Conference League qualification that League Cup victory provides.
The FA Cup is the world's oldest national football competition, founded in 1871–72. With 736 clubs entering and no replays from the 2024–25 season, the format has evolved while the tradition remains compelling.