Newcastle United have been handed one of the toughest draws possible as they are set to host treble winners Manchester City in the Third Round of the Carabao Cup.
City won four League Cup finals in a row between 2018 and 2021, and having won the treble last season, Pep Guardiola’s side represent tough opposition.
Home advantage could give Newcastle an advantage as Eddie Howe’s side look to go one step further than last season, where the Magpies reached the final but lost to Manchester United.
The tie will be played in the week commencing September 25th, in what will be a busy period for Newcastle in between Premier League and Champions League fixtures.
With City also in Europe, it seems likely that both teams will rotate a bit, but it remains to be seen what kind of form Newcastle will be in by the time the game comes around.
Newcastle have already faced City in the League this season, losing 1-0 at the Etihad Stadium last week, and it is far from ideal for Eddie Howe’s side to have such a tough game in a busy period.
Should Newcastle take the League Cup seriously?
Given that Newcastle do not have the deepest squad in terms of depth, and are in Europe for the first time in over a decade, the Carabao Cup may fall lower in the list of priorities this season.
However, the draw pitting Newcastle against Man City could be ideal. Win, and the favourites for the trophy will be out, giving Newcastle an increased chance of winning the whole thing. Lose, and there will be little shame in bowing out to the treble winners, and Howe can focus his squad on the Premier League and Champions League.
It will be a good test of Newcastle’s depth after a busy window, and new signings Tino Livramento and Harvey Barnes will be pushing for a start.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
