The stage is set for a blockbuster showdown at Wembley as Manchester United take on Newcastle United in the 2022/2023 Carabao Cup final. Two historic clubs with passionate fanbases and revitalised squads will battle for silverware, and for both sides, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For United, it’s a chance to end a trophy drought that dates back to 2017. For Newcastle, it’s an opportunity to lift their first major domestic trophy since 1955, a moment that would etch Eddie Howe’s team into Geordie folklore.

Route to the Final

Manchester United

Erik ten Hag’s side have navigated the competition with authority. They began with a comfortable 4–2 victory over Aston Villa at Old Trafford, followed by a 2–0 win over Burnley. In the quarter-finals, United swept past Charlton Athletic 3–0 before a semi-final clash with Nottingham Forest. A dominant 3–0 first-leg win at the City Ground all but sealed the tie, and a 2–0 second-leg victory confirmed their Wembley trip.

Newcastle United

Newcastle’s road has been steadier but equally impressive. They edged past Crystal Palace on penalties after a 0–0 draw in the third round, then dispatched Bournemouth 1–0 at St James’ Park. Leicester City were next, with a composed 2–0 win in the quarters. In the semi-final, the Magpies overcame Southampton, winning 1–0 away and 2–1 at home to reach their first domestic cup final in over two decades.

Team News

Manchester United

Ten Hag will be boosted by the return of key midfielder Casemiro after suspension in the Premier League, while Marcus Rashford’s electric form makes him the first name on the team sheet. Anthony Martial faces a race against time to be fit, while Christian Eriksen remains side-lined. Expect a strong XI with Bruno Fernandes pulling the strings in midfield.

Newcastle United

The Magpies face a nervous wait on goalkeeper Nick Pope, who was controversially sent off in the league game against Liverpool and is suspended for the final. That means former Liverpool keeper Loris Karius could be thrust into the spotlight for his first competitive Newcastle appearance. Bruno Guimarães returns from suspension, a massive boost in midfield, while Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson both provide firepower up front.

Recent Form

Manchester United come into the final in fine form. Ten Hag’s men have been resilient across competitions, riding the confidence of Marcus Rashford’s scoring spree and a tightened defence marshalled by Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martínez.

Newcastle, meanwhile, have stumbled slightly in the league after a strong start to the season, drawing several games and suffering a rare defeat to Liverpool. However, their defensive record remains one of the best in the Premier League, and their intensity under Howe ensures they’ll be no pushovers.

Players to Watch

• Marcus Rashford (Man United): In the form of his life, Rashford’s pace and finishing could decide the contest.
• Bruno Fernandes (Man United): The Portuguese playmaker’s ability to unlock tight defences will be crucial.
• Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle): Newcastle’s midfield metronome, fresh from suspension, will dictate their tempo.
• Kieran Trippier (Newcastle): Set-piece specialist and defensive leader, his deliveries could be a key weapon.

Prediction

Wembley finals often hinge on fine margins, and this one feels no different. Manchester United have the edge in experience and attacking quality, particularly with Rashford in such scintillating form. Newcastle’s defensive steel and passionate support will make it a tight affair, but the absence of Nick Pope could prove decisive.

Prediction: Manchester United 2–1 Newcastle United Rashford to continue his hot streak and deliver United’s first trophy of the Erik ten Hag era.