2025-2026 Carabao Cup Finalists Confirmed After Man City Vs Newcastle Clash

Adeyemi TaiwoFebruary 5, 2026

Manchester City and Arsenal Set for 2025-2026 Carabao Cup Final

Manchester City and Arsenal will face off in the 2025-2026 Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium after both teams secured semi-final victories.

Manchester City advanced by defeating Newcastle United 3-1 on Wednesday night, completing a 5-1 aggregate victory. After taking a 2-0 lead from the first leg, City quickly took control at the Etihad Stadium. Omar Marmoush scored twice in rapid succession during the first half, effectively ending Newcastle’s hopes, followed by a goal from Tijjani Reijnders just before halftime. Anthony Elanga provided a consolation goal for Newcastle, but it was not enough to alter the outcome.

Arsenal confirmed their place in the final by overcoming Chelsea with a 4-2 aggregate in the other semi-final. This marks Arsenal’s first major final since winning the FA Cup in August 2020, which remains the only significant trophy secured under manager Mikel Arteta’s tenure.

The final is set for Sunday, March 22, 2026; the kick-off time has yet to be announced. This match will also be a rematch of the 2018 Carabao Cup final, where Manchester City triumphed 3-0.

Since that encounter, Arsenal has shown improved results against City, heightening the anticipation for the upcoming showdown.

In injury news, Arsenal may be without midfielder Mikel Merino, who is expected to undergo surgery for a foot injury and is likely to miss the remainder of the season. Arteta will also need to decide on a starting goalkeeper, as Kepa Arrizabalaga has served in cup matches while David Raya remains the preferred choice in league play.

Manchester City is hopeful for the return of John Stones, Savinho, and Mateo Kovacic for the final, although Josko Gvardiol is anticipated to be sidelined. James Trafford, who has performed well in the cup run, is expected to continue in goal. Marc Guehi will not be eligible for the final, having joined City after the registration deadline.

Beyond the trophy, the final carries psychological significance, as both teams are also competing closely in the Premier League title race. Guardiola’s side has a strong record in the Carabao Cup and the manager holds the record for the most titles won in the competition. However, Arsenal’s recent performances against City suggest a closely contested match, with many expecting that the North London club may end its six-year wait for a major title.

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