The Carabao Cup quarter-final draw has thrown up a mix of Premier League clashes and a potential giant-killing as League One side Charlton Athletic prepare to face Manchester United. The draw took place after Manchester City’s thrilling 3-2 victory over defending champions Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.
City, chasing a seventh Carabao Cup in ten years, will travel to Southampton in the week commencing 9 January. Pep Guardiola’s side eliminated Liverpool in a match that showcased the quality of English domestic football, with goals from Erling Haaland, Riyad Mahrez and Nathan Ake. Kevin de Bruyne was instrumental, setting up two goals.
Manchester United, 57 places above Charlton in the league pyramid, will host the Addicks at Old Trafford. The fourth-round victory over Brighton earned Charlton a prestigious trip to Manchester in what will be a stern test for the League One outfit. Nottingham Forest will host Wolves in a Midlands derby at the City Ground, while Newcastle United face Leicester City at St James’ Park as the Magpies continue to dream of silverware.
The semi-finals are scheduled for the weeks commencing 23 and 30 January, with two-legged ties determining the finalists. The quarter-finals will all be played in the week beginning 9 January.
