Liverpool have been drawn to welcome 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 remaining side, Fleetwood Town. The fixture list, confirmed earlier this week, sets up a series of all‑Premier League encounters that promise high‑stakes football across the country.
The upcoming Liverpool‑Chelsea clash marks a significant moment for both managers. Chelsea’s new boss, Xabi Alonso, will make his first appearance at Anfield in his managerial capacity after guiding his side to a victory over Leeds United in the previous round. Alonso, a former Liverpool midfielder who lifted the Champions League trophy as a player during his illustrious spell at the club, has already been linked with a potential move to Liverpool as a replacement for Arne Slot.
Instead, he chose to embark on his senior coaching career at Stamford Bridge, and his first test against his former club will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike. Meanwhile, Liverpool secured their own progression by defeating Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, ensuring that the Reds remain in contention for the trophy.
The match against Chelsea will be the second all‑Premier League tie in the round, joining a total of six such fixtures that have emerged after Manchester City’s 2‑0 win over Norwich City set up a home showdown with Brighton & Hove Albion. Brighton’s own journey has been dramatic, having produced a stunning comeback to claim victory at Manchester United in the previous round, a result that has added further intrigue to the tournament’s narrative.
In the lower divisions, League Two side Fleetwood Town have earned a remarkable draw against Arsenal after pulling off a shock upset over Championship outfit Sheffield United in the third round. Fleetwood will host the Gunners at Highbury Stadium, providing an opportunity for the North West club to test themselves against the league champions on their own turf.
The match is expected to be a classic David‑versus‑Goliath encounter, with Fleetwood hoping to replicate the giant‑killing form that saw them eliminate a higher‑ranked opponent. Other fourth‑round fixtures include Everton travelling to Newcastle United, Brentford heading north to face Sunderland, and Fulham taking on Crystal Palace at the historic Craven Cottage.
Bournemouth will welcome Aston Villa for what promises to be a tightly contested game, while Bradford City from League One will host Peterborough United, guaranteeing that a non‑Premier League side will still be represented in the quarter‑finals. The schedule for the fourth round is set for the week beginning 26 October, giving clubs a brief window to prepare for the intense knockout atmosphere that defines the Carabao Cup. The competition, known for its propensity to produce surprise results and provide a platform for emerging talent, continues to capture the imagination of supporters across all tiers of English football. Looking ahead, the quarter‑final line‑up will be shaped by the outcomes of the current fixtures.
Should Liverpool overcome Chelsea, they will join the ranks of clubs like Manchester City, Brighton, and potentially Arsenal, all of whom are vying for a place in the semi‑finals. The tournament’s format, which pits clubs from the Premier League against those from the lower divisions, ensures a blend of experience and fresh ambition, often leading to memorable moments that endure beyond the season. Fans are also encouraged to engage with the competition’s promotional activities.
A "Super 6" competition is running alongside the matches, offering participants a chance to win a £1 million prize pool. Entry is free, and the initiative aims to increase fan interaction while adding an extra layer of excitement to the cup’s progression. In summary, the Carabao Cup fourth round promises a series of compelling fixtures, highlighted by the high‑profile Liverpool‑Chelsea clash at Anfield and Arsenal’s encounter with League Two side Fleetwood Town. With several all‑Premier League ties on the docket, the stage is set for a thrilling week of football that could see underdogs continue their giant‑killing runs or top clubs assert their dominance on the road to the final.