Liverpool have been drawn to meet Chelsea at Anfield in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, a fixture that promises a high‑octane clash between two of England's most storied clubs. The draw also saw Premier League champions Arsenal paired with the competition's lowest‑ranked remaining side, Fleetwood Town, after the latter pulled off a shock victory over Sheffield United in the previous round.
The upcoming Anfield encounter will mark the first time Xabi Alonso returns to Liverpool in a managerial capacity. Alonso, who guided Liverpool to Champions League glory as a player during his illustrious spell at the club, has taken over the reins at Chelsea after a successful stint that included a win over Leeds United last week. His debut at Anfield will be closely watched by both sets of supporters, as the former Liverpool midfielder‑turned‑coach looks to imprint his tactical philosophy on a Chelsea side eager to add silverware to their cabinet.
Alonso’s appointment at Chelsea was the subject of much speculation earlier in the season. Rumours linked him with a possible move to replace Arne Slot at Liverpool, but he ultimately chose to accept the challenge at Stamford Bridge.
His experience as a player who thrived under Jürgen Klopp’s high‑pressing system could prove invaluable in navigating the knockout format of the Carabao Cup, where a single mistake can end a campaign. Chelsea’s trip to Anfield is one of six all‑Premier League match‑ups scheduled for this round of the competition.
The other fixtures include Manchester City’s home tie against Brighton after City’s 2‑0 victory over Norwich, and Brighton’s dramatic comeback win at Manchester United that secured their place in the draw. The round also features Everton hosting Newcastle, Brentford travelling to Sunderland, Fulham taking on Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage, and Bournemouth welcoming Aston Villa. In the lower leagues, League Two side Fleetwood Town will host Arsenal after their impressive upset of Championship side Sheffield United at the high‑scoring Bootham Crescent.
Fleetwood’s run has captured the imagination of neutral fans, highlighting the magic of cup football where underdogs can challenge the elite. Their match against Arsenal will be a test of whether their giant‑killing form can continue against a side that boasts a deep squad and a recent Premier League title.
The draw also guarantees a League One presence in the quarter‑finals, with Bradford City set to host Peterborough United after both teams navigated the earlier rounds. This demonstrates the inclusive nature of the Carabao Cup, where clubs from across the English football pyramid have the chance to progress and face top‑flight opposition.
The fourth round fixtures are slated for the week commencing 26 October, giving clubs a short window to prepare for what could be decisive matches in their season plans. For Liverpool, a win would keep their hopes of a domestic cup double alive, complementing their league ambitions. For Chelsea, a victory would be a statement of intent from Alonso’s new regime, signalling that the Blues are serious about competing on multiple fronts.
Beyond the on‑field action, the competition continues to engage fans with promotional activities. The “Super 6” draw, offering participants a chance to win £1 million, remains open for free entry, adding an extra layer of excitement for supporters across the country. Overall, the Carabao Cup’s fourth round promises a blend of high‑profile Premier League clashes and compelling underdog narratives.
Liverpool’s Anfield atmosphere, Chelsea’s tactical evolution under Alonso, Arsenal’s clash with a determined Fleetwood, and the continued presence of lower‑league teams all contribute to a captivating week of football that underscores the tournament’s reputation for drama, surprise, and opportunity for clubs at every level.