Daily News 19

Tag: Carabao Cup

  • How Andoni Iraola Is Moving Liverpool Beyond the Arne Slot Era

    How Andoni Iraola Is Moving Liverpool Beyond the Arne Slot Era

    Key Highlights

    • Liverpool remain unbeaten under Iraola but have drawn two of their last three Premier League matches, including a flat performance against Fulham days after a Champions League win over Atletico Madrid.
    • The squad’s average age of 25.3 in the Premier League is among the league’s youngest, with teenagers Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni plus 20-year-old Koumas earning significant Carabao Cup minutes against Tottenham.
    • A brutal fixture congestion looms: four games in 12 days before the international break, followed by nine matches between October 11 and November 7, forcing tactical adaptation beyond high-intensity pressing.

    Iraola’s Pragmatic Approach Shaped by Media Scrutiny

    Liverpool manager Iraola has settled into a routine defined by discretion and timing. He prefers to finalize his starting XI on the morning of each match and reserves post-match debriefs with players for the following day. This pragmatic streak extends to his media engagements, a lesson reinforced after comments made to LFC TV following a pre-season friendly against Monaco were widely disseminated. Iraola conceded that Liverpool had “run out of steam after 30 minutes and did not have the energy levels at the time to play with the intensity that he wants.” He clarified the remark was not a criticism of his players but an admission that the squad was still building the required fitness baseline. The episode underscored a reality at Anfield: every utterance is amplified across social media and often reinterpreted beyond its original intent. Despite this, Iraola projects calm in news conferences and remains open to dialogue, navigating a mutual adaptation process between himself and the club.

    Youth Development Central to Long-Term Vision

    A primary factor in Liverpool’s appointment of Iraola was his track record developing young talent, a priority reflected in the current squad demographics. The average age of Liverpool’s Premier League players this season stands at 25.3 years, with only five top-flight clubs fielding younger lineups on average. That philosophy translated into opportunity during the Carabao Cup tie against Tottenham, where 18-year-old Rio Ngumoha, 19-year-old Trey Nyoni, and 20-year-old Koumas all started. All three are projected for expanded roles compared to the previous campaign. “Intensity” remains a non-negotiable buzzword under Iraola, yet he acknowledges that a relentless schedule demands tactical flexibility. The manager recognizes Liverpool must occasionally secure results through set-pieces or individual brilliance rather than sustained high-tempo pressing alone.

    Fixture Congestion Tests Squad Depth and Tactical Flexibility

    The early-season data presents a paradox: Liverpool lead the Premier League in sprints completed, yet appeared visibly flat in a goalless draw at Fulham last weekend, fewer than 72 hours after a Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid. Sunday’s trip to Bournemouth marks a fourth match in 12 days. The respite of the international break offers little relief; a congested block of four games in 10 days follows immediately. Between October 11 and November 7, Liverpool are scheduled to play nine times across all competitions. This relentless calendar validates Iraola’s emphasis on adaptability. The manager admitted he was “buzzing” when he saw Bournemouth win their Europa League opener against Real Sociedad on Thursday, a match played in the Basque region where he grew up. The journey south on Saturday may offer a moment of reflection on his rapid ascent.

    Why This Matters

    Liverpool’s unbeaten start under Iraola represents progress after 12 league defeats last season, establishing a foundation of resilience. However, vice-captain Alisson articulated the club’s standard last week: draws are not sufficient for Liverpool. Iraola carries an imposing personal statistic into Sunday’s clash—he is unbeaten in the Premier League since January across his tenures at two clubs. A victory at the Vitality Stadium, on familiar ground, would provide momentum heading into the international break and validate the early integration of youth within a high-intensity system. The coming weeks will test whether the squad’s physical outputs can be sustained without compromising results, and whether Iraola’s pragmatic game management can convert dominance into points during a period of extreme fixture density.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which young players have earned significant minutes under Iraola this season?

    Rio Ngumoha (18), Trey Nyoni (19), and Koumas (20) all started the Carabao Cup match against Tottenham and are expected to play larger roles throughout the campaign.

    What is Liverpool’s upcoming fixture schedule before and after the international break?

    Liverpool face a fourth game in 12 days against Bournemouth on Sunday. After the international break, they play four matches in 10 days, totalling nine games between October 11 and November 7.

    How has Iraola’s media approach changed since the pre-season Monaco friendly?

    After his post-match assessment of fitness levels was widely circulated and reinterpreted, Iraola has adopted a more pragmatic media style, recognizing that at Liverpool every comment is scrutinized and often reframed on social platforms.

  • Szoboszlai: Koumas and McConnell ‘deserve to play’ after Carabao Cup impact

    Szoboszlai: Koumas and McConnell ‘deserve to play’ after Carabao Cup impact

    Dominik Szoboszlai Praises Liverpool Youngsters Lewis Koumas and James McConnell After Carabao Cup Victory Over Tottenham

    Liverpool secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup, with emerging talents Lewis Koumas and James McConnell delivering standout performances that caught the attention of senior midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai.

    Young Duo Impress in Midfield Roles

    The Hungarian international was full of admiration for the academy graduates after the match, highlighting their composure and impact on the game. Szoboszlai emphasized that their performances are creating welcome selection headaches for the coaching staff.

    “They both did a really good job.”

    Increased Competition for Places

    Szoboszlai noted that the impressive displays from Koumas and McConnell have made life difficult for Andoni Iraola in terms of squad selection, underlining the depth and quality coming through the Liverpool ranks. The 3-1 win advances the Reds to the next round of the competition while showcasing the club’s successful youth development pathway.

    Both teenagers have been regular features in Liverpool’s youth sides this season and took their opportunity in the first-team environment with maturity beyond their years. Their ability to handle the physical and tactical demands of a match against Premier League opposition suggests bright futures at Anfield.

    Carabao Cup Campaign Continues

    With the victory, Liverpool progress in the Carabao Cup as they aim to add to their domestic cup collection. The integration of academy players into competitive first-team matches remains a cornerstone of the club’s philosophy, providing valuable experience while maintaining competitive edge in cup competitions.

  • Arteta: Merino Among Most Intelligent Players I’ve Worked With After Goal, Assist vs Ipswich

    Arteta: Merino Among Most Intelligent Players I’ve Worked With After Goal, Assist vs Ipswich

    Arteta Praises Merino’s Intelligence After Arsenal’s Carabao Cup Win at Ipswich

    Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed Mikel Merino as one of the most intelligent players he has ever coached following the midfielder’s influential performance in the Gunners’ 4-2 Carabao Cup victory over Ipswich Town.

    Merino Leads by Example as Captain

    Handed the captain’s armband for the clash at Portman Road, Merino delivered a complete midfield display. The Spain international not only scored Arsenal’s fourth goal — a composed finish off the inside of the post — but also played a key role in the build-up to Noni Madueke’s strike.

    Arteta Highlights Tactical Awareness

    Speaking after the match, Arteta emphasized Merino’s football IQ, describing him as one of the most intelligent players he has coached. The Arsenal boss pointed to the 28-year-old’s decision-making, positioning, and ability to control tempo as crucial factors in the team’s progression to the next round.

    Arsenal Advance in Carabao Cup

    The win secures Arsenal’s place in the fourth round of the competition. Merino’s all-action showing — combining leadership, creativity, and a clinical finish — underscored his growing importance to Arteta’s squad as they balance domestic cup commitments with Premier League and Champions League demands.

  • Liverpool vs Tottenham Hotspur: Carabao Cup Third Round Live

    Liverpool vs Tottenham Hotspur: Carabao Cup Third Round Live

    Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur prepare to face off in a Carabao Cup clash at Anfield, with both managers ringing the changes after goalless Premier League draws at the weekend. The tie kicks off at 8 pm BST under the lights on Merseyside, where a raucous atmosphere is building ahead of a competition that has historically delivered drama whenever these two sides meet.

    Team news: wholesale rotations for both sides

    Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool side drew a blank against Fulham on Saturday and have yet to beat an English team at Anfield this season. Spurs, meanwhile, have failed to score in four matches against top‑flight opposition. Yet the League Cup often throws up unpredictable line‑ups, and tonight is no exception.

    The only survivor from Liverpool’s starting XI against Fulham is Ronald Araújo, who shifts from right‑back to form a central defensive partnership with Joe Gómez. Gómez returns from his latest injury lay‑off to anchor the back line alongside the Uruguayan.

    Tottenham retain three players from the side that held Everton: Rodrigo Bentancur, Omar Marmoush and captain Archie Gray. Two familiar faces to the Anfield faithful sit on the visitors’ bench – Dominic Solanke and Andrew Robertson. Robertson, who made 378 appearances for the Reds, could receive an emotional reception if introduced.

    Confirmed line‑ups

    Liverpool: Mamardashvili; Frimpong, Araújo, Gómez, Kerkez; Nyoni, Mac Allister, Ngumoha; McConnell, Gakpo, Koumas.
    Substitutes: Alisson, Endo, Jacquet, Szoboszlai, Isak, Muñoz, Barcola, Gravenberch, Chambers.

    Tottenham Hotspur: Dubravka; Gray, Tosin, Senesi, Udogie; Bentancur, Bergvall, Kudus; Gallagher, Tel, Marmoush.
    Substitutes: Kinsky, Robertson, Van Hecke, Maddison, Savio, Fernandes, Solanke, Davies, Van de Ven.

    Referee: Andrew Madley (West Yorkshire).

    Pre‑match thoughts from the dugouts

    Speaking to Sky Sports before the game, Andoni Iraola explained his selection rationale: “We decided to change a lot of the team … we needed fresh legs … we have a lot of players willing to have a good performance … get us to the next round … also looking forward to seeing those players … I am sure they will take that chance … it’s a great chance to see [the younger players] … if we put them in, it’s because we think they are ready to help us and ready to perform … we will get a lot of information from this game … it is a matter of execution and keeping calm … I trust them … I hope they do well … we know we will face a strong team … but I trust my players.”

    Roberto De Zerbi, also addressing Sky Sports, struck a similarly confident tone: “I am lucky I have a great squad … many very good players … changing the first XI, I hope we don’t change the quality of the players, I am sure they are the same level … I would like to see the goals … the same attitude of the first 30 minutes against Everton … we have the qualities enough to score … it’s a tough moment … no pressure, but we play to win the games … playing at Anfield against Liverpool is always tough … but my focus is on my team … after one month of working together … keep our eyes on our goal … our organisation of the play and nothing else.”

    League Cup pedigree on show

    A striking number of players on tonight’s team‑sheets have already tasted success in this competition. For Liverpool, Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, Joe Gómez, Ryan Gravenberch, Wataru Endo, Kostas Tsimikas and James McConnell featured in either the 2022 or 2024 final victories over Chelsea. Alisson, Trey Nyoni and Lewis Koumas collected medals as unused substitutes in 2024, as did Dominik Szoboszlai despite being injured. Alexander Isak scored for Newcastle in their 2025 triumph over Liverpool.

    On the Spurs side, Andy Robertson is the only member of tonight’s squad to have played in and won a final – doing so for Liverpool. Omar Marmoush and Savio were on the bench for Manchester City’s victory over Arsenal earlier this year, while Martin Dúbravka watched from the dugout as Newcastle lifted the trophy in 2025. Sandro Tonali, not involved tonight, also played in that Newcastle win.

    Recent history promises entertainment

    Despite the underwhelming recent form of both sides, the fixture has a habit of producing fireworks. Across the last four seasons, meetings between Liverpool and Tottenham have yielded scorelines of 5‑1, 4‑0, 3‑6, 4‑2 and 4‑3, alongside a cluster of last‑minute equalisers, late winners, four red cards and one notorious VAR controversy. As the pre‑match build‑up noted: “Good process, everyone! So anything could feasibly happen. The fun – and it should be fun, shouldn’t it? – begins at 8 pm BST.”

    Fan predictions and banter

    The pre‑match postbag revealed a mix of optimism and gallows humour. Jesse Davies wrote: “Great to see Joe Gomez back. However, I predict a muscle strain on 23 minutes sadly.” Dave Estherby mused: “It (probably) won’t happen but would anything be funnier than 0‑0 after 90 minutes, then Tottenham missing their first three pens and Liverpool going through?” Meanwhile, krishnamoorthy v delivered a withering verdict: “I have seen a lot many optimists in my life but none so optimistic as you who equates fun with Spurs. Watching Tottenham play these days is equivalent to watching an arthritic old man cross the road at a signal when you are already running late.” Ian Copestake replied: “I could have crossed the road faster but I have to get my kicks somehow.”

    With the teams out, “You’ll Never Walk Alone” echoing around Anfield, and the Kop in full voice, the stage is set for another unpredictable chapter in this fixture’s modern folklore.

  • Liverpool Starting XI vs Tottenham Revealed

    Liverpool Starting XI vs Tottenham Revealed

    Liverpool vs Tottenham: Carabao Cup Third Round Preview

    Liverpool welcome Tottenham Hotspur to Anfield this evening for a high-stakes Carabao Cup third-round clash. The match is scheduled to kick off at 20:00 BST on September 15, with both Premier League heavyweights aiming to secure a place in the fourth round of the competition.

    Match Details and Venue

    The tie takes place at Anfield, where Liverpool will look to leverage home advantage against a Spurs side that has historically struggled on Merseyside. The third-round stage of the Carabao Cup often sees managers rotate their squads, offering fringe players and academy graduates a chance to stake a claim for regular first-team minutes.

    Team News and Tactical Considerations

    Both managers face selection dilemmas balancing squad rotation with the desire to progress in a competition that offers a realistic route to silverware. Liverpool’s squad depth allows for significant changes while maintaining quality, particularly in midfield and attack. Tottenham’s new-look side under their current management will be keen to build momentum in domestic cup competitions.

    Historical Context

    Recent encounters between these two sides have been closely contested, high-scoring affairs. The Carabao Cup has provided memorable moments for both clubs in recent years, with Liverpool lifting the trophy in 2022 and 2024, while Tottenham last won the competition in 2008.

    How to Follow the Match

    Fans can follow the action live from Anfield with kick-off set for 8:00 PM UK time. The match represents an early opportunity for either side to lay down a marker in the domestic cup campaign as the season progresses.

  • Tottenham’s Richarlison posts ‘Why?’ and tearful emoji after being omitted from Carabao Cup tie vs Liverpool

    Tottenham’s Richarlison posts ‘Why?’ and tearful emoji after being omitted from Carabao Cup tie vs Liverpool

    Tottenham Hotspur’s search for a first Premier League victory of the season has been complicated by the ongoing situation surrounding striker Richarlison. The Brazil international was omitted from the club’s Premier League squad amid a contractual dispute, while a proposed deadline-day return to Everton collapsed after the forward failed to agree personal terms with the Toffees.

    Deadline-Day Move to Everton Falls Through

    A proposed £35 million transfer back to Goodison Park broke down on deadline day. Sources indicate the 27-year-old was unable to reach an agreement with Everton over personal terms, leaving his immediate future in North London uncertain.

    Contract Dispute Leads to Squad Exclusion

    Richarlison has been left out of Tottenham’s Premier League squad as a dispute continues over the remaining nine months of his current contract, which expires next summer. The club retains the option to trigger a 12-month extension, but the forward is understood to be exploring his options and is keen to secure a release from the remainder of his deal.

    Difficult Start for De Zerbi’s Spurs

    The striker’s exile arrives at a challenging moment for Tottenham. Under head coach De Zerbi, the side is still searching for a first league win of the new campaign. They have failed to score in their opening four Premier League matches—a first in the club’s history.

    This underwhelming start comes despite a summer expenditure exceeding £300 million to strengthen the squad following back-to-back 17th-placed finishes.

    Richarlison’s Recent Form and Record

    Despite the current standoff, Richarlison was Tottenham’s leading scorer last season, netting 12 goals in all competitions. That tally was five more than the next highest scorers, centre-back Micky van de Ven and defensive midfielder Joao Palhinha.

    The striker also boasts a strong record against upcoming opponents Liverpool, having scored four goals in seven matches against the Reds during his time at Spurs. He joined the club from Everton in 2022 following previous spells with Watford and the Merseyside club, and has won 54 caps for Brazil.

  • Arteta: ‘Our players are willing for more’

    Arteta: ‘Our players are willing for more’

    Arsenal’s demanding fixture schedule continues to intensify as the team prepares for a Carabao Cup third-round tie against Ipswich Town at Portman Road. Following a victory over Chelsea, the squad faced a rapid turnaround for a Champions League trip to Naples, then an even shorter recovery period before traveling to Sunderland last weekend. Now, the Gunners enter their third different competition in as many matches.

    Arteta Confident in Squad Readiness Despite Congested Calendar

    Despite the relentless travel and competition rotation, manager Mikel Arteta insists his players are eager for the latest challenge. He emphasized the squad’s mentality, stating:

    “We’ll look at the players’ eyes and they will say they want to play, and ‘I want to win a game, and I want to improve.’”

    Arteta added that the team has already analyzed the previous match and is hungry for more.

    “They will review the [Sunderland] game, and they will be willing for more because I know the boys.”

    Carabao Cup History Highlights Youth Pathway

    The League Cup has historically served as a platform for Arsenal’s emerging talent. Notably, it was the competition where Max Dowman received his first senior start during a 2-0 fourth-round win over Brighton last season. Although the 16-year-old has yet to feature for the first team this campaign, Arteta remains confident in his development trajectory.

    “He will have his chance,” he said. “He will have his minutes, and he will have to earn them like anybody else.”

    The manager stressed the club’s responsibility to nurture the youngster’s potential while integrating him into the collective.

    “We know the talent that we have, we know the players that we have there, and we need to help him and find a way to make sure that he continues to develop and help the team.”

  • Palmer Shines as Chelsea Rally to Beat Leeds 6-3 in FA Cup

    Palmer Shines as Chelsea Rally to Beat Leeds 6-3 in FA Cup

    Chelsea staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Leeds United 6-3 in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, scoring four goals in a 12-minute spell to overturn a two-goal deficit at Stamford Bridge.

    The hosts trailed 2-0 after 48 minutes following strikes from Tarik Muharemovic in the 23rd minute and Brenden Aaronson three minutes into the second half. The turnaround began when half-time substitute Cole Palmer converted a penalty in the 53rd minute before leveling the score two minutes later with a low, curling finish.

    Fellow substitute Pedro Neto put Chelsea ahead on the hour mark, and Danny Welbeck extended the lead to 4-2 in the 65th minute. Leeds briefly threatened a response when Dominic Calvert-Lewin pulled one back in the 75th minute, but Valentín Barco restored the two-goal cushion five minutes later. Welbeck added his second and Chelsea’s sixth in the fourth minute of stoppage time to seal the victory.

    The match marked the fourth occasion in five games this season that Chelsea have conceded two or more goals, highlighting ongoing defensive concerns despite the attacking firepower on display.

  • ‘I feel very privileged’: Danny Welbeck reflects on ‘massive’ Chelsea switch

    ‘I feel very privileged’: Danny Welbeck reflects on ‘massive’ Chelsea switch

    Danny Welbeck has expressed a deep sense of privilege following his summer move to Chelsea, marking a significant new chapter for the 35-year-old forward. The veteran striker opened up on his emotions after completing the switch to Stamford Bridge, emphasizing the honor of representing the club at this advanced stage of his career.

    Welbeck Marks Debut with Goal Against Luton

    Welbeck wasted little time making an impact, finding the back of the net on his competitive debut for the Blues. The goal came during Chelsea’s Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town, providing an immediate return on the club’s decision to bring the experienced England international into the squad.

    Reflecting on the transfer, Welbeck admitted he feels ‘privileged’ to make a switch to Chelsea at this stage of his career.

    Contention for Leeds United Clash

    Following his promising start, the forward is now in strong contention to feature again when Chelsea face Leeds United in the next round of the competition. His early fitness and sharpness in front of goal give manager Enzo Maresca a reliable option as the team navigates a demanding fixture schedule across multiple competitions.

    The move reunites Welbeck with a familiar Premier League environment after spells at Manchester United, Arsenal, Watford, and most recently Brighton & Hove Albion. His proven track record in English football’s top flight adds valuable depth and leadership to a youthful Chelsea dressing room.

  • Moises Caicedo, Marco Palestra Ruled Out of Chelsea’s Carabao Cup Tie vs Leeds

    Moises Caicedo, Marco Palestra Ruled Out of Chelsea’s Carabao Cup Tie vs Leeds

    Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo Ruled Out of Carabao Cup Clash Against Leeds United

    Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo will miss Wednesday’s Carabao Cup tie against Leeds United but could be available for selection when the Blues face Hull City on Saturday.

    Caicedo Absent for Arsenal Defeat

    The Ecuadorian international was notably absent from Chelsea’s matchday squad for Sunday’s 1-0 Premier League defeat to Arsenal at Stamford Bridge. His omission comes after manager Xabi Alonso acknowledged a tactical error in the previous fixture against Brighton.

    Manager Admits Substitution Mistake

    Alonso admitted he made a mistake by bringing Caicedo off the bench during the Brighton encounter. The decision to withdraw the midfielder appears to have influenced the subsequent team selection for the Arsenal match, with the player left out entirely.

    Potential Return Timeline

    While Caicedo is confirmed to miss the midweek cup tie against Leeds, the club remains hopeful he will recover in time for the weekend fixture against Hull City. The Saturday match represents a quick turnaround that could see the midfielder return to competitive action.

    The Carabao Cup third-round tie against Leeds United kicks off on Wednesday evening, with Chelsea looking to progress without one of their key midfield assets.