Joe Cole Backs Arsenal to Edge Manchester City in Carabao Cup Final Showdown

By Ifreke Inyang | March 17, 2026

Former England midfielder Joe Cole has tipped Arsenal to defeat Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final, set to be contested this Sunday.

Arsenal booked their place in the final with a 4-2 aggregate victory over Chelsea, while Manchester City overcame Newcastle United in the semi-finals. The match marks the first major trophy opportunity of the Premier League season for both clubs.

“I watched Man City leave, and I still think Arsenal will beat them,” Cole told The Dressing Room podcast. “It’s going to be a great game for neutrals.”

Cole also hinted at a fiery atmosphere off the pitch, suggesting tensions could flare between the two benches. “I also predict there will be some rough stuff between the Arsenal and City benches,” he added.

The final is widely anticipated as a thrilling encounter, featuring two of England’s top teams, with fans and pundits eagerly speculating on which squad will lift the trophy.