Liverpool have been drawn to play Chelsea at Anfield in the fourth round of the Caraboo Cup, while the reigning Premier League champions Arsenal will face the competition's lowest‑ranked remaining side, Fleetwood Town, in their own tie. The upcoming match will mark the first time Xabi Alonso returns to Anfield in a managerial capacity, this time wearing the Chelsea badge.
Alonso’s side secured a victory over Leeds United in the previous round, and the Reds earned their place by defeating Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday. Alonso, who lifted the Champions League trophy as a Liverpool player during his illustrious playing career, was widely speculated to be a candidate for the vacant Liverpool manager’s job after Arne Slot’s departure. Instead, he chose to take charge of Chelsea, a decision that adds an extra layer of intrigue to his first visit to the stadium where he once starred.
Chelsea’s trip to Anfield is one of six fixtures in this round that pit two Premier League clubs against each other. The other all‑top‑flight clashes include Manchester City’s home game against Brighton after City’s 2‑0 win over Norwich City, a match that sets up a compelling showdown with Brighton, who famously staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Manchester United in the previous round. In the lower‑league bracket, League Two side Fleetwood Town will host Arsenal after pulling off a stunning upset against Championship side Sheffield United at their home ground in the third round.
Fleetwood’s victory over a higher‑division opponent highlights the unpredictable nature of cup competitions, where underdogs often rise to the occasion. Other fixtures scheduled for the fourth round are: - Everton versus Newcastle United at Goodison Park, a game that could provide a much‑needed boost for the Toffees after a mixed start to the season. - Brentford travelling to Sunderland, offering the Bees a chance to test themselves away from home against a side eager to prove its cup credentials.
- Fulham hosting Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage, a London derby that promises an entertaining encounter between two clubs with rich histories. - Bournemouth welcoming Aston Villa to the Vitality Stadium, a clash that could see the Cherries aim to capitalize on home advantage against a Villa side looking to regain momentum.
The quarter‑final stage will also feature a League One representative, with Bradford City set to host Peterborough United, ensuring that the competition retains its tradition of mixing clubs from across the English football pyramid. The fourth‑round matches are slated for the week beginning 26 October, providing fans with a packed schedule of high‑stakes knockout football. Each tie carries the promise of drama, potential giant‑killing acts, and the chance for clubs to secure a coveted place in the semi‑finals. Beyond the on‑field action, the Carabao Cup continues to engage supporters through interactive promotions.
This season, fans can take part in the "Super 6" competition, which offers a free entry for a chance to win a £1 million prize pool, adding an extra incentive for viewers to tune in and cheer for their favourite teams. Overall, the draw sets up an exciting array of fixtures that blend top‑flight clashes with the classic cup romance of lower‑division teams challenging the elite. Liverpool’s encounter with Chelsea will be a tactical battle between two seasoned managers, while Arsenal’s meeting with Fleetwood Town underscores the magic of knockout football, where any team can triumph on the day. The upcoming week promises a showcase of skill, strategy, and the unpredictable spirit that makes the Caraboo Cup a beloved competition across England.