Manchester City host Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday while they aim to defend a 2–0 aggregate lead and reach their 10th EFL Cup final.
The Citizens have moved into a commanding position in this tie thanks to goals from Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki in the first leg. While the squad has been hit by a string of defensive injuries, manager Pep Guardiola will be confident in his side’s historical dominance at home against the Magpies. A result tonight would also see them move past a frustrating domestic weekend and focus on a potential trip to Wembley. Notably, only one team in history has ever overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit to reach the final.
Manchester City Team News
Pep Guardiola manages a squad dealing with several long-term absences but welcomes back key cup performers. Notably, Rayan Cherki is expected to start despite picking up a knock over the weekend; he aims to become the first City player since Yaya Touré to score in four consecutive EFL Cup games. However, Marc Guéhi is cup-tied and ineligible, while Jeremy Doku and Joško Gvardiol remain sidelined. Consequently, Guardiola is likely to rely on the experience of Nathan Aké and Rodri to stabilise the side.
James Trafford is poised to start in goal, protected by a backline that should include Abdukhodir Khusanov and Matheus Nunes. In midfield, the emerging Nico O’Reilly could partner Rodri, allowing Bernardo Silva to operate in a more advanced role. Erling Haaland is expected to lead the attack, supported by Semenyo and Cherki, as City look to end their recent second-half slumps.
Manchester City Predicted Lineup
Manchester City predicted XI: Trafford; Nunes, Khusanov, Ake, Ait-Nouri; Rodri, O’Reilly; Cherki, Bernardo; Semenyo, Haaland
When will the match kick off?
The Carabao Cup semi-final fixture takes place at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, 4 February 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 GMT.
How to watch Manchester City vs Newcastle?
In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event. Coverage begins at 19:00 GMT on both television and the Sky Go app.
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