Guardiola set to push Carabao Cup rules over new signing

City completed a comfortable aggregate 5-1 win over Newcastle United on Wednesday night to set up a final against Arsenal on March 22. 

The semi-final has also highlighted an eligibility issue that could yet dominate the build-up.

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The rule that could keep Guehi out

Guehi was unable to feature in either leg of the semi-final after completing his move to City following the first match. 

Under current Carabao Cup regulations, players signed after the opening leg of a tie are ineligible to take part in the remainder of that round, which extends to the final.

With several weeks separating the semi-final from the Wembley showpiece, City are expected to challenge that restriction, despite an acknowledgement internally that the likelihood of a rule change is slim. 

The club’s position is that Guehi is a fully registered City player and will have been with the squad for a significant period by the time the final is played.

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City’s progression to Wembley continues a familiar pattern as the club has now played at least one match at the national stadium in every season since 2010.

This reinforces their sustained presence at the business end of domestic cup competitions and underlines the standards Guardiola has maintained throughout his tenure.

Depth on display as Newcastle exit with fresh concerns

The semi-final also served as another reminder of City’s depth, with Omar Marmoush continuing to make an impact in attacking areas. 

The forward has now produced multiple strong performances against Newcastle this season, offering Guardiola an additional option even with Erling Haaland available.

For Newcastle, the tie never truly swung in their favour after defeat in the first leg. Eddie Howe’s side arrived in Manchester needing a controlled, assertive display but were unable to impose themselves across the two matches.

The night was made more difficult by an injury to Anthony Gordon, who was forced off before half-time and will now be assessed ahead of Newcastle’s upcoming fixtures. 

Any extended absence would represent a significant setback as they look to regain momentum in the league.

 

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