Arsenal will look to secure the first major trophy of their season when they face Manchester City in the 2026 EFL Cup Final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.
Arsenal are aiming to lift the League Cup for the third time in their history and claim the first silverware of what could be a memorable campaign. The Gunners reached their first cup final since 2020 after knocking out Port Vale, Brighton, Crystal Palace and Chelsea.
Victory would also see Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta become the first Gunners boss to win his first two major finals with the club. Arteta’s side head into the clash in strong form against City, having gone unbeaten in their last six meetings across all competitions.
Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, will be chasing their ninth League Cup title and a fifth under the Spaniard. City reached the final after beating Huddersfield Town, Swansea City, Brentford and Newcastle United by two-goal margins in each round.
However, Guardiola’s side arrive at Wembley under pressure after a difficult week, having been knocked out of the Champions League following a heavy 5–1 defeat to Real Madrid C.F.
Arteta says reaching the final is a defining moment for his team.
“It’s one of the defining moments because at the end, it’s whether you win the trophy or not – and that’s the most important thing once you get to the final,” he said.
“But in order to be there, you have to do a lot of things and earn a lot of things as the team has done so far.”
He added that the players are motivated by the significance of the occasion.
“One of the best memories I have as a player is playing those types of games. That’s why we’re all very excited, because we know what’s at stake. We really want it and we know what it’s going to mean for our people as well.”
Guardiola acknowledged the challenge his side will face against Arsenal.
“We have got to Wembley 22 times in 10 years, it’s an honour and a big challenge. For the team it’s a big moment,” he said.
“When we reach the final, no matter the competition, it’s always tough.”
He also praised Arsenal ahead of the clash.
“They are an exceptional team, it’s a big challenge for us to see our level. To be there, we have to see it as a big opportunity because we never know when it will happen again.”
Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard remains a doubt for the final after missing the last six matches with a knee injury.
Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga could retain his place after featuring in all previous rounds of the competition.
City have confirmed that goalkeeper James Trafford will start at Wembley after playing in every League Cup match this season.
Defender Marc Guéhi is cup-tied following his January move from Crystal Palace, while Joško Gvardiol remains sidelined with a fractured leg.
Manchester City have won eight League Cup titles, second only to Liverpool’s 10.
Arsenal have had eight different scorers in the competition this season.
City striker Erling Haaland has scored in each of his last three matches against Arsenal.
Midfielder Rayan Cherki has been involved in four League Cup goals for City this season.
