Liverpool have been drawn to meet Chelsea at Anfield in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, while the reigning Premier League champions Arsenal will face the competition's lowest‑ranked survivor, League Two side Fleetwood Town. The fixture list promises a series of all‑Premier League clashes, highlighting the depth of talent still competing in the tournament. The upcoming tie will mark a notable moment for Xabi Alonso, who will make his first return to Anfield as a manager.
Alonso, now at the helm of Chelsea after guiding them to a victory over Leeds United in the previous round, will be back in Liverpool’s iconic stadium for the first time since his playing days. As a player, Alonso lifted the Champions League trophy with Liverpool in 2005, cementing his status as a club legend.
His recent managerial journey has been closely watched; rumors once linked him with the vacant Liverpool job after the departure of Arne Slot, but he ultimately chose to continue his career at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea’s visit to Anfield is one of six match‑ups this round that feature only Premier League teams. The other fixtures include Manchester City, who secured a comfortable win over Norwich City on Thursday and will now host Brighton & Hove Albion – a side that produced a dramatic comeback to defeat Manchester United in their previous encounter.
Sunderland will travel to Brentford, while Fulham will host Crystal Palace at the historic Craven Cottage. Bournemouth will welcome Aston Villa, and Everton will take on Newcastle United at Goodison Park.
In the lower‑league bracket, Fleetwood Town earned the right to host Arsenal after pulling off a stunning upset against Championship side Sheffield United in the third round. Fleetwood’s victory over a higher‑division opponent showcases the magic of cup competitions, where underdogs can thrive against more established clubs.
Their upcoming match against Arsenal will be a test of whether the Gunners can maintain focus against a side eager to prove themselves on a national stage. Bradford City will represent League One in the quarter‑finals after being drawn against Peterborough United, ensuring that the competition retains a representative from the third tier of English football. This inclusion underscores the Carabao Cup’s tradition of providing opportunities for clubs across all levels to compete against top‑flight opposition. The fourth‑round fixtures are scheduled for the week beginning 26 October, giving clubs a chance to balance their cup ambitions with the demanding league calendars.
For many teams, the Carabao Cup offers a valuable platform to rotate squads, give younger players experience, and potentially secure silverware early in the season. Beyond the on‑field action, the tournament continues to engage fans with additional incentives.
A promotional "Super 6" competition allows participants to enter for free for a chance to win a £1 million prize, adding an extra layer of excitement for supporters following the draws and match results. Overall, the draw sets up a compelling series of fixtures that blend high‑profile Premier League clashes with the classic underdog narratives that make knockout football so captivating. Liverpool’s clash with Chelsea promises tactical intrigue, especially with Alonso’s personal connection to the venue, while Arsenal’s encounter with Fleetwood highlights the unpredictable nature of cup football. As the competition moves into its next stage, fans can look forward to a blend of drama, surprise, and the ever‑present hope of lifting the Carabao Cup trophy.