Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle and Tottenham face off over the coming week in the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup with some clubs out to end long trophy droughts with victory, but who wants it more?
The Carabao Cup semi-finals takes place this week as a spot at Wembley comes into view.
Arsenal kick-off the semi-finals on Tuesday evening as they welcome Newcastle to the Emirates Stadium. The two sides then meet again next month in the second-leg of their last four clash.
Meanwhile, the Gunners’ North London rivals are also in action. Tottenham have a tough task in an effort to reach Wembley as they come up against current Premier League leaders Liverpool. Their first game takes place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium ahead of next month’s second-leg at Anfield.
And while the Reds are arguably the favourites for the trophy, they might not actually *need* it the most. But who does? Mirror Football takes a look…
1. Newcastle
Newcastle’s lack of trophies has been well-documented over recent seasons – and even more so since their big-money Saudi takeover. The club’s owners are keen to end that drought, something that Eddie Howe has been made abundantly aware of.
The former Bournemouth boss has gotten close on claiming that much-desired trophy on a few occasions. Newcastle reached the final of the Carabao Cup in 2023 only to be beaten by Manchester United at Wembley.
They also reached the quarter-finals of both cup competitions last term. While it would be harsh, there have been suggestions that Newcastle’s owners could opt to make a change should they fail to win a trophy under Howe. It goes without saying that many at the club need the trophy then.
Who will win the Carabao Cup this season? Share your predictions in the comments below
2. Tottenham
From one trophy drought to another now, Tottenham’s last piece of silverware was infamously the League Cup back in 2008. Like Newcastle, they have gone close on a number of occasions.
They reached the Carabao Cup and Champions League finals under Mauricio Pochettino, while they also reached another League Cup final in 2021. They have been left frustrated over recent seasons.
Spurs did not go past the fourth round of the FA Cup last term. And with the pressure cranking up on Ange Postecoglou amid a dismal Premier League season, he could certainly do with silencing the criticism by delivering a trophy. It would also bring with it a place in Europe, which is no guarantee in the league at this stage.
3. Arsenal
From one half of North London to another, Mikel Arteta could also do with claiming a trophy this season. The Spaniard enjoyed a brilliant start to life at the Emirates Stadium by winning the FA Cup in his debut campaign.
Apart from the Community Shield, Arsenal haven’t won anything since. That’s not to say they haven’t impressed. The Gunners have challenged for the Premier League crown over the last two seasons, only to be edged out by Manchester City.
A trophy would convince Arsenal fans that Arteta is the man to continue leading the North London side into the future.
4. Liverpool
It’s not that Liverpool don’t need the Carabao Cup, it’s just that they’ve probably got bigger fish to fry this season. Arne Slot has the Reds challenging for the Premier League and Champions League this season, which will likely be their priorities.
That’s not to say Slot won’t want to win the cup. The Dutchman will love a trophy in his debut season, which would instantly make the season a success if they fail to win any more silverware.
Of course, a defeat would be annoying for Liverpool and Slot but it wouldn’t be the end of the world for the Reds.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Learn more
