Manchester City opened the campaign chasing glory in both Carabao and FA Cups, an ambition Pep Guardiola framed as essential after last year’s trophyless finish. Early wins over Bournemouth and Newcastle set the tone before a quarter final trip to Tottenham ended the League Cup dream.
Players admitted disappointment yet insisted the setback sharpened focus on the senior cup competition. Rico Lewis described the Wembley semi final victory as a response to critics who doubted City’s hunger outside league play.
Guardiola uses the word reset when discussing that defeat at Tottenham. He argues that single elimination matches can recalibrate intensity across the squad, ensuring younger players understand that small lapses carry immediate consequence.
The manager also drew positives from Academy exposure. Oscar Bobb and Savinho featured prominently in the early rounds, gaining experience that may benefit the club in seasons ahead.
With one domestic cup remaining, City have an opportunity to finish with tangible reward and reach eight FA Cup titles overall. Guardiola insists the final now carries added weight, symbolising endurance through a challenging schedule.
Whether or not the double materialises this year, the pursuit itself reveals a mentality that treats every competition as vital to the club’s evolving legacy.
