Last Word on Football brings you the latest team news and predicted lineups ahead of the Arsenal vs Manchester City Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium. First in the Premier League, play second in this domestic cup final showdown. The Gunners will be confident of winning, having stretched their lead to nine points in the table.
Manchester City have exited the Champions League, and drawn their last two league games, falling further behind Arsenal. A win for Mikel Arteta’s team will keep their quadruple hopes alive.
Carabao Cup Final: Team News and Predicted Lineups for Arsenal vs Manchester City
Date: Sunday, March 22, 2026
Venue: Wembley Stadium
Kick-off: 16:30 GMT
Last meeting: Arsenal 1-1 Manchester City (September 21, 2025).
Referee: Peter Bankes
Current odds: Arsenal 11/8, Manchester City 12/5, Draw 12/5.
Read More: The Greatest Footballers of All Time: Part Two, 1918-1939
Arsenal Team News
In his pre-match press conference, Arteta was asked about the latest injury news and said:
“We have another training session [on Saturday], so the ones that are in contention hopefully can give us good news.”
On the availability of Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber, the Gunners boss said: “We have another session, so let’s see if they can make it.”
On the difficulties of picking a 20-man squad, Arteta said: “Especially because everybody has been involved in the competition, and on the last day when you have the option to be at Wembley, not to give the opportunity for someone to be there, it’s difficult. So, yes, it’s something to think about.”
Discussing Kepa starting, Arteta said: “We will see how everybody is [after training on Saturday], and then we’ll make the decision.”
Read More: Best Arsenal Players to Wear the Number 1 Jersey Ever
Manchester City Team News
During the pre-final press conference, Pep Guardiola confirmed James Trafford will start in goal: “For the team it’s a big moment,” Guardiola said.
Discussing Erling Haaland, Guardiola said: “I’m pretty sure he’s focused, like all of us. I did not speak with him; we’ve had two days off. I’m pretty sure he’s ready.”
Josko Gvardiol remains injured, with Max Alleyne likely returning to the squad.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup
Kepa
Timber
Saliba
Gabriel
Hincapie
Zubimendi
Rice
Saka
Eze
Trossard
Gyokeres
Manchester City Predicted Lineup
Trafford
Nunes
Khusanov
Dias
Ait-Nouri
Bernardo
Rodri
Cherki
Semenyo
O’Reilly
Haaland
Featured Image Credit:
SmartFrame – Pro Sports Images
