Manchester City’s Carabao Cup final promises to be an exciting game as Pep Guardiola’s side prepare to take on Arsenal. Since Guardiola took over as manager in the 2016/17 season, Manchester City have reached more domestic finals than any other Premier League team, making a total of nine appearances.

Fans in England and beyond are eagerly awaiting Manchester City’s Carabao Cup final, an exciting showdown that pits Pep Guardiola’s side against Arsenal in what promises to be one of the most thrilling games of the season.

The Citizens beat Newcastle United 3-1 in the second leg of the semi-finals on Wednesday to book a spot in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City. They defeated their opponents 5-1 to secure a spot in the final and continue Manchester City’s impressive record this season. Pep Guardiola’s side will turn their attention to Arsenal as they prepare for an exciting Carabao Cup final clash with Manchester City.

In March, Guardiola’s side will face Arsenal in the final. The London club advanced to the final, beating Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate in the semi-finals, setting up an exciting showdown.

The Gunners will be favorites as they sit top of the Premier League table, but Manchester City have a much better record in reaching finals.

Under Guardiola, Manchester City has reached nine finals, while no other club has reached more than eight finals at the same time. The experience could be important when the two teams meet in March.

Arsenal to face Manchester City in League Cup final

After beating Chelsea 1-0 in the second leg, Arsenal advanced to the League Cup final with a first-leg win at Stamford Bridge with a total score of 4-2.

The first half of the game was stalemate, with both teams struggling to create clear opportunities, and the half-time score remained at 0-0.

In the second half, Chelsea continued to struggle with Arsenal’s tenacious defense. As the Blues continued to push towards the end of the game, Arsenal broke through quickly and secured victory with a late goal from Kai Havertz into the back of the net.

Carabao Cup final: Can Manchester City stop Arsenal?

Looking ahead to the Manchester City League Cup final, Manchester City need to be careful because Arsenal’s defense is very strong this season. The Gunners became the first team in Europe’s top five leagues to keep 20 clean sheets in all competitions, making them a tough team to beat.

In September 2025, Manchester City faced Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, and the result was 1-1. City looked set to win but Arsenal equalized with a late goal in the 93rd minute.

Manchester City have also performed well at the back, keeping 16 clean sheets so far. However, they have conceded six more goals than Arsenal in 24 Premier League games.

Manchester City’s attack power is stronger, scoring 49 goals in the Premier League, compared with 46 goals for their opponents. Arsenal have also struggled of late, failing to score in two of their last four league games.

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Can Guardiola finish Manchester City’s Carabao Cup final on a high note?

There have been several reports recently questioning how long Guardiola will stay at Manchester City. If the 2025-26 season is his last in charge, he will be hoping to end his time at the club on a high note.

City have won all four League Cup finals under Guardiola, so while Arsenal may be seen as favorites, history is on City’s side. If Guardiola leads his team to a fifth League Cup title, it would be a fitting way to end his time in England, especially since his first trophy as manager came in the same game against Arsenal.

However, Guardiola’s future is in doubt as City drop points again in the Premier League. Despite leading 2-0, they drew 2-2 with Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. The result leaves them six points behind league leaders Arsenal and raises questions over Guardiola’s ability to lead his side to the Premier League title this season.

Xabi Alonso is reportedly set to replace Guardiola if he leaves, putting more focus on City’s future than just the current manager.

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Credit: imagery / sports image

Recording date: February 4, 2026