The latest Carabao Cup draw has confirmed that Liverpool will welcome Chelsea to Anfield for a fourth‑round showdown, while the reigning Premier League champions Arsenal have been paired with the competition's lowest‑ranked remaining side, Fleetwood Town. This fixture marks a significant moment for Chelsea’s new manager, Xabi Alonso, as it will be his inaugural visit to Liverpool’s historic ground in his capacity as head coach. Alonso, who guided Liverpool to Champions League glory as a player during his illustrious spell at the club, was widely linked with the vacant managerial position at Liverpool after Arne Slot’s departure. Instead, he opted to embark on his managerial career at Stamford Bridge, where he recently led Chelsea to a victory over Leeds United.
Meanwhile, Liverpool themselves secured their place in the fourth round by edging past Tottenham Hotspur in a tightly contested match on Tuesday. The Reds will now look to build on that momentum against a Chelsea side eager to make a statement under their new boss. Chelsea’s trip to Anfield is one of six all‑Premier League clashes scheduled for this round of the tournament.
The other match‑ups feature Manchester City, who defeated Norwich City on Thursday and will host Brighton & Hove Albion—a side that famously staged a dramatic comeback to overturn Manchester United earlier in the competition. Sunderland will travel to Brentford, and Fulham will host Crystal Palace at the iconic Craven Cottage. Bournemouth will welcome Aston Villa, and Everton will take on Newcastle United at Goodison Park. In the lower‑league bracket, League Two outfit Fleetwood Town will host Arsenal after pulling off a surprising upset against Championship side Sheffield United in the third round.
Fleetwood’s victory over a higher‑division opponent has earned them the distinction of being the smallest club left in the tournament, setting up a classic David‑versus‑Goliath encounter with the league champions. The draw also guarantees a League One presence in the quarter‑finals, with Bradford City slated to host Peterborough United. This ensures that the competition retains its reputation for providing opportunities for clubs from across the English football pyramid to test themselves against top‑flight opposition.
The fourth‑round fixtures are slated to be played during the week commencing 26 October, giving clubs a brief window to prepare for what promises to be an exciting series of knockout ties. Fans can anticipate a blend of tactical intrigue, emerging talent, and the ever‑present possibility of giant‑killing that defines the magic of cup football. Beyond the on‑field action, the Carabao Cup continues to engage supporters with interactive promotions.
One such initiative, the "Super 6," offers participants a chance to win a £1 million prize pool, with entry available at no cost. This adds an extra layer of excitement for fans following the tournament’s progress. In summary, Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Chelsea not only provides a platform for Xabi Alonso’s first test at Anfield but also sets the stage for a compelling narrative of redemption and ambition for both clubs.
Arsenal’s tie against Fleetwood Town promises to deliver the classic underdog storyline, while the other Premier League fixtures ensure a high‑quality showcase of English football talent. As the Carabao Cup moves into its fourth round, supporters across the country can look forward to a week of intense competition, surprising outcomes, and the enduring allure of knockout football.