Should Manchester United focus on defending the Carabao Cup?
Manchester United won the English League Cup last season. Now called the Carabao Cup, the decision for how much energy to put forth into a competition like it will fall to Jose Mourinho.
The less glorious of the two cups, the Carabao cup shouldn’t be a priority this season. I’ll flat out say it. It lacks the prestige of the FA Cup, and is just another 90 minutes where Manchester United risk players’ health.
Jose Mourinho is a smart manager. He knows how to efficently and effectively manage his players. Last season, United were out of the title race at this point and were just fighting for a top four finish. The Europa League group stages were a joke, as United breezed through. And the FA Cup hadn’t picked up yet.
Mourinho used the Carabao cup as a chance to rotate his squad and work in youngsters to get them experience with the first team. It makes sense, and it paid off in the end.
But this year, with the added weight of Champions League, taking a look at competition priority is worthwhile.
Heading into this season, the four competitions were ranked as follows:
- Premier League
- Champions League
- FA Cup
- Carabao Cup
Although the Premier League looks to be over, Mourinho’s men only sit in second place. Miracles are possible, so each game in the league deserves full attention.
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The Champions League knockout stages start in the Spring, and United have a tricky draw against Sevilla lined up. Jose could choose to try to make a deep run in Europe should the league look to be decided by then.
Lastly, the two domestic cup competitions. The FA Cup should be and will be the more sought after trophy. Jose will use a rotated side in its’ matches for sure, but will still include regular first team players to try and win.
With a fixture congestion like that, the Carabao Cup should be used a youth development program. Youngsters only with fringe-first teamers would be a great way to get younger players experience. Should the win and keep winnings it’s a great story, and United could focus heavy should the make the final again.
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But if they get knocked out, no one will bat an eye.
When you’re trying to be elite you have to focus on where you want to make the most of an impact. The Carabao Cup just isn’t that kind of competition.