Manchester City — catalyzed by the likes of Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden and Aymeric Laporte — secured their fourth Carabao Cup victory in a row.
City coach Pep Guardiola started with both Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden in the central attacking roles a broad 4-4-2 formation as City controlled pace in the first 45 minutes to establish control.
“[It was] more than well deserved,” Guardiola said. “We were out to play and played with an incredible level and quality. I am so delighted for the guys and have a thought for those who couldn’t play.”
This marked Guardiola’s 30th trophy as a manager, in just 12 years.
He has a 93% final win rate, having won 14 of the last 15 finals he has been in. He became the first manager in English football to win 4 EFL Cups in a row.
He joins Brian Clough, Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho with four – no manager has won more.
Guardiola, despite the win, urged his team to focus on the next two Premier League matches and secure “the most important title of the season.”
City became just the second club (Liverpool) to win the League Cup in four consecutive seasons.
“It was a good night to share with our people,” Guardiola wrapped up.
City get set for Champions League action against Paris Saint-Germain Wednesday, 28 April.
