Alonso Returns to Anfield as Chelsea Face Liverpool in Carabao Cup

Liverpool legend Xabi Alonso will return to Anfield as manager of Chelsea for their Carabao Cup fourth-round clash. The match marks a significant encounter for Alonso, who is managing Chelsea and faces his former club in a competitive fixture.

Alonso acknowledged the significance of returning to a place where he was once adored as a player. "I need to support my team. I need to support my club. I fight for my club, and if we score, I will celebrate for sure," Alonso stated, emphasizing his commitment to Chelsea while maintaining respect for his past ties to Liverpool. He noted that while his warmth for Liverpool as a player remains, his current role demands full dedication to his team.

He also recognized the unique nature of cup games, suggesting that special moments can arise. Alonso has previously managed against Liverpool at Anfield, having brought Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid to the stadium in Champions League fixtures in 2024 and 2025, receiving warm receptions on those occasions. However, his move to Chelsea this summer may alter the sentiment from the Liverpool faithful.

Elsewhere in the Carabao Cup fourth round, Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca previewed his team's match against Brighton. Maresca acknowledged Brighton's strong performance and attacking prowess, stating, "They create so many chances. We need to do the right things offensively and defensively." He also highlighted the team's need for squad rotation due to the close proximity of matches, mentioning that some players who featured in their recent loss to Aston Villa had been given time off.

Manchester City has experienced an unusual season, marked by the impending departure of Pep Guardiola and Maresca's successful start. Despite a recent league defeat to Aston Villa, the team still tops the Premier League. However, the club faces unresolved charges that will continue to cast a shadow until an appeal and any potential punishment are determined.

The Carabao Cup fourth round also features other notable ties, including Bournemouth vs. Aston Villa, Fulham vs. Crystal Palace, Sunderland vs. Brentford, and Everton vs. Newcastle United.

Last night's Carabao Cup action saw a significant upset as Fleetwood Town knocked out Arsenal on penalties after a dramatic match. Jay Lynch was the hero for the League Two side, saving a penalty from Bruno Guimaraes to secure their passage to the next round, an outcome described as one of the biggest shocks in English domestic cup history.