Need to know
Ahead of this week's League Cup semi-final first-leg clashes, Mirror Football provides you with everything you need to know
Carabao Cup trophy
The Carabao Cup semi-final first legs take place this week(Image: Getty Images)
Everything you need to know about the Carabao Cup semi-finals, from when they kick-off, how they work and whether there will be VAR
VAR details: Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will be utilised throughout the remainder of this season’s competition to assist officials with key match decisions. This will be supported by the introduction of semi-automated offside technology to ensure quicker and more accurate calls on the pitch.
TV info: In a bid to improve transparency for fans, all VAR decisions will be accompanied by in-stadium announcements to explain the reasoning behind each review. Most of the upcoming fixtures will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football, with selected matches also available on ITV.
First Leg – Newcastle United v Manchester City: The opening tie of the Semi-Finals kicks off at St James’ Park on Tuesday 13 January at 8.00pm. Supporters can follow the action live on both Sky Sports Football and ITV as the two heavyweights look to gain an early advantage.
First Leg – Chelsea v Arsenal: The London derby takes centre stage on Wednesday 14 January at 8.00pm at Stamford Bridge. This match will be shown exclusively on Sky Sports Football as the Blues host the current Premier League leaders.
Second Leg – Arsenal v Chelsea: The return fixture at the Emirates Stadium is scheduled for Tuesday 3 February with an 8.00pm kick-off. Both Sky Sports Football and ITV will provide live coverage to see which London side secures their place at Wembley.
Second Leg – Manchester City v Newcastle United: The final spot in the final will be decided at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday 4 February at 8.00pm. This concluding leg of the Semi-Finals will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football.
Newcastle United: As the defending champions, Newcastle enter this tie in fine form and remain unbeaten at home in their last thirteen matches across all competitions. Having ended a 70-year wait for a major trophy last season, the Magpies are determined to retain their title under Eddie Howe.
Manchester City: Currently sitting second in the Premier League, Manchester City are enjoying a twelve-match unbeaten run that includes a recent 10-1 demolition of Exeter City. Despite their historical dominance with eight League Cup titles, the Citizens are seeking their first triumph in this competition since 2021.
Chelsea: Following the recent appointment of Liam Rosenior as head coach, Chelsea are looking for stability after a period of mixed results and a mid-table league position. While they have won the competition five times in their history, the Blues are currently adjusting to a new tactical system implemented this January.
Arsenal: Arsenal are presently leading the Premier League table and have shown remarkable consistency, though they have not won the League Cup since 1993. Mikel Arteta’s side will be eager to add domestic cup silverware to their impressive league campaign and end their long drought in this specific tournament