The Cityzens have won the Carabao Cup four times under Pep Guardiola, but haven’t made it beyond the last eight since their most recent triumph in 2021. Having endured a rare trophyless campaign last term, they will be eager to rediscover that winning feeling at Wembley.

City have identified Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca as a potential successor for Pep Guardiola, though sources confirm that the Italian is not the only option

Manchester City are reportedly eyeing Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca as a potential replacement for Pep Guardiola should Guardiola leave the club at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.

Cup football has often rewarded Brentford’s organisation and resilience, qualities that will again be required. Their challenge lies in managing long spells without the ball, while remaining brave enough to test Man City when opportunities arise. Discipline, both tactical and emotional, will be central to any hopes of an upset.

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Manchester City and Aston Villa both won to keep the pressure on Premier League leader Arsenal. Nottingham Forest pulled further away from the relegation zone with a 3-0 against Tottenham and Sunderland beat Newcastle 1-0 in the Tyne-Wear derby after an own-goal from Nick Woltemade.

Manchester City’s relationship with the Carabao Cup has been complicated by success elsewhere, but nights like this still matter. Under slick floodlights and in awkward conditions, Man City found clarity through quality, dispatching Brentford 2-0 to reach the semi finals and extend a December run that continues to gather momentum.

Manchester City survived a few early scares before eventually coasting to a 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday, led once again by goal-scoring extraordinaire Erling Haaland.

The Cityzens have made little impact in the competition since their four successive triumphs between 2018 and 2021, though they are always a contender despite often rotating their playing squad. Should they eventually triumph at Wembley, Pep Guardiola would secure a 19th piece of silverware since taking charge of the club.