Carabao Cup Rule Change Impacts Semi-Final
A recent adjustment to Carabao Cup regulations has significantly influenced Manchester City’s semi-final campaign against Newcastle United. For the first time in the competition’s history, players became eligible to represent multiple clubs during the tournament if transferred between teams mid-season.
Eligibility Rules Benefit City in First Leg
The rule modification proved advantageous for Manchester City during the initial semi-final clash. New signing Antoine Semenyo made an immediate £62.5 million impact by scoring a crucial goal, while defender Max Alleyne contributed to a clean sheet following his return from Watford. Their performances helped secure a 2-0 aggregate lead for the Blues.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe publicly criticized the rule change prior to the first leg, expressing particular frustration after both transferred players influenced the match outcome. City now prepare for Wednesday’s decisive second leg at Etihad Stadium, where they aim to reach their first final since their historic four consecutive tournament victories between 2018 and 2021.
Guehi Ruled Out of Second Leg
Despite the regulation changes, defender Marc Guehi will be unavailable for selection following his £20 million transfer from Crystal Palace. Competition rules stipulate that players must be registered with their new club before the semi-final’s first leg to participate in subsequent matches. Since Guehi’s transfer completed after City’s initial encounter with Newcastle, he remains ineligible for both the second leg and any potential final.
This restriction contrasts with the eligibility of Semenyo and Alleyne, who completed their transfers within the registration window. City’s defensive options for Wednesday’s match will consequently exclude their new acquisition.
Nypan Available for Selection
Midfielder Sverre Nypan will be eligible for Manchester City’s semi-final squad after returning early from his Middlesbrough loan. The Norwegian prospect’s season-long arrangement was terminated due to limited playing opportunities, with club officials confirming he’ll train with Pep Guardiola’s first team.
While immediate involvement against Newcastle appears unlikely, Nypan retains eligibility having not featured for Middlesbrough in this season’s competition. His availability provides additional midfield depth as City seek to secure a Wembley final berth against either Chelsea or Liverpool.
