Manchester City XI vs Arsenal – Predicted lineup and team news

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The Football Faithful

·22 March 2026

Manchester City XI vs Arsenal – Predicted lineup and team news

Manchester City travel to Wembley today, aiming to secure their eighth major trophy under Pep Guardiola and halt a worrying run of form against their title rivals.

The Sky Blues have moved into a critical juncture of their season, looking to rebound from a Champions League exit and a nine-point deficit in the league. Manager Pep Guardiola has overseen a perfect Carabao Cup campaign so far, with his side winning every game by a 2+ goal margin.

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City have a historic affinity for this competition, having won the last seven finals they have appeared in, but they must now overcome an Arsenal side that has frustrated them in their last six encounters.

Notably, City have won their last four League Cup meetings with the Gunners and will rely on that psychological edge to secure Guardiola’s fifth win in this competition tonight.

Manchester City team news

Pep Guardiola manages a squad missing a key January signing but welcoming back an experienced leader. Notably, James Trafford has been confirmed as the starting goalkeeper for the final, continuing his ever-present run in the competition. Consequently, John Stones is expected to return to the heart of the defence as Marc Guéhi is cup-tied.

Notably, Rayan Cherki has been the competition’s standout performer, averaging a goal involvement every 47 minutes. Erling Haaland will lead the line, desperate to secure his first-ever career goal at Wembley Stadium on his seventh attempt.

James Trafford will start in goal behind a defensive line featuring Ruben Dias and John Stones. In midfield, Rodri will anchor the side alongside Bernardo Silva and the young Nico O’Reilly. Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo are poised to provide the creative spark for Haaland.