According to 90min, the Carabao Cup will once again kick off the 2024/25 season as the first major trophy, with preparations well underway for the competition's start.
Despite its lower profile compared to other trophies, teams like Manchester City and Liverpool have historically valued its early season impact.
The fixtures for the 2024/25 Carabao Cup first round have been announced, featuring matchups such as Salford City vs Doncaster Rovers and Leeds United vs Middlesbrough. Premier League teams will join in the third round in mid-September, highlighting the competition's progression.
Key dates for the Carabao Cup rounds include:
- First round: Week commencing 12th August 2024
- Second round: Week commencing 26th August 2024
- Third round: Weeks commencing 16th & 23rd September 2024
- Fourth round: Week commencing 28th October 2024
- Quarter-finals: Week commencing 16th December 2024
- Semi-finals: Weeks commencing 6th January 2025 & 3rd February 2025
- Final: 16th March 2025 at Wembley Stadium
The 2024/25 final will offer the first domestic silverware of the season, continuing the tradition at Wembley Stadium. Last season saw Liverpool secure their tenth Carabao Cup title, overcoming Chelsea in a memorable final where Virgil van Dijk scored the decisive goal in extra time.