When Do Premier League Teams Enter the Carabao Cup? A 2025/26 Season Guide
The Carabao Cup, officially the EFL Cup, is one of English football’s oldest knockout competitions, giving clubs across the leagues a chance at silverware. But when exactly do Premier League sides enter, and why do some teams skip the early rounds?
Entry Rules Explained
The Carabao Cup is structured to balance opportunity for lower-league clubs with fixture relief for top-tier teams. The entry points are simple:
- Premier League clubs not in Europe – These teams join in Round 2.
- Premier League clubs in European competition (Champions League, Europa League, Europa Conference League) – These clubs receive a bye until Round 3.
2025/26 Season: Who Enters When?
For the current season, the split looks like this:
- Round 2 entrants – Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, Everton, Fulham, Nottingham Forest, Southampton, West Ham, Wolves, and others not in Europe.
- Round 3 entrants – Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Newcastle, and Brighton (all competing in European tournaments).
Round 2 is scheduled for late August, while Round 3 will take place in mid-to-late September.
Why the Bye for European Clubs?
The exemption for European participants helps reduce fixture congestion. Clubs playing midweek European ties already face a packed calendar, so the EFL allows them to join later. This system ensures the competition remains competitive while also giving lower-league clubs a realistic chance of progressing further in the early rounds.
Why It Matters for Fans
The Carabao Cup is often the first chance supporters get to see new signings, youth players, or rotated squads in action. It’s also the quickest route to a Wembley final and a European spot for the winner.
For clubs outside the European places, entering in Round 2 can be both a blessing and a burden: extra fixtures mean valuable game time, but also risk fatigue in the squad.
Looking Back and Ahead
Last season, Liverpool lifted the trophy after beating Chelsea in a dramatic final. This year, all eyes will be on whether one of the traditional giants can dominate again or if an outsider can spring a surprise, as Swansea City famously did in 2013.
Key Dates to Remember
- Round 2: Week commencing 25 August 2025
- Round 3: Week commencing 22 September 2025
- Final: 1 March 2026, Wembley Stadium
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