Manchester City have received a definitive response to their request for a rule change that would have allowed defender Marc Guehi to feature in the upcoming Carabao Cup final. The club's appeal has been unsuccessful, with the EFL standing firm on existing regulations.
Guehi Ruled Out of Wembley Showdown
Marc Guehi will be ineligible to play for Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on March 22nd. This decision comes despite City manager Pep Guardiola publicly stating the club would seek special permission for the England international to participate.
The issue stems from Guehi's transfer timeline. The defender completed his move from Crystal Palace to Manchester City on January 19th, which was six days after the semi-final first leg against Newcastle United. This timing places him outside the eligibility window established by competition rules.
Understanding the EFL Regulations
Rule 6.4.2 of the Carabao Cup regulations permits players to represent more than one club during the competition, but with specific restrictions. The crucial deadline is either the closure of the winter transfer window or the date of the semi-final first leg, whichever occurs earlier.
This season introduced this revised regulation, which previously allowed other City players to benefit. Antoine Semenyo was able to feature and score in the first leg against Newcastle after his transfer from Bournemouth, while Max Alleyne could participate despite earlier appearing for Watford on loan before being recalled by City.
Guardiola's Frustration with the System
Pep Guardiola expressed clear dissatisfaction with the situation following City's semi-final victory. 'Why should he not play? Why not? He's our player, we pay his salary, we hired him,' questioned the City manager.
Guardiola elaborated on the club's position, stating 'We want to ask. I said to the club we have to ask definitely. I don't understand the reason why he cannot play in the final of the Carabao Cup in March when he has been here a long time... Of course we are going to ask because it's pure logic.'
However, the Spanish tactician acknowledged the reality of the situation, conceding '(But) to change the rule, no way. But we will try.' This admission highlights the club's awareness that rule modifications mid-competition remain highly improbable.
City's Cup Final Preparation Continues
Despite this setback, Manchester City secured their place in the final with a comprehensive 5-1 aggregate victory over Newcastle United. The second leg at the Etihad Stadium saw a 3-1 win, with Omar Marmoush scoring twice and Tijjani Reijnders adding another goal, all coming in the first half.
Reijnders, who has been impressive for City, commented on the team's mentality ahead of the final. 'It's a step closer to the trophy and we are very hungry. It would be nice for me, personally, to win my first trophy here at Manchester City. It's amazing,' said the midfielder.
Premier League Pressure Mounts
The Carabao Cup final comes during a crucial period for Manchester City's season. Currently trailing Premier League leaders Arsenal by six points, City have dropped points in five of their last six league matches.
Reijnders addressed the team's situation, emphasizing 'We can't afford any more slip-ups. We want to win every game and this game won't be different for us.' This statement underscores the increasing pressure on City to maintain consistency across all competitions.
The final against Arsenal represents not only an opportunity for silverware but also a psychological battle between two title contenders. City will need to navigate this high-stakes match without Guehi's defensive contributions, testing their squad depth at a critical juncture of the season.
