The Carabao Cup final between Manchester United and Newcastle kicks off in little over an hour, with the lineup expected to be announced soon. One player who you can almost guarantee to start in this match is Kieran Trippier, who has been the Magpies’ best player this season.
The main reason why Newcastle have been so impressive this season is their ability to annoy the opposition given their immense defensive work. They are the most difficult side in the league to break down and when they go ahead, they’re great at shutting up shop to deny the opposition a sniff of an equaliser.
This time-wasting and parking the bus tactic is one that, understandably, frustrates oppositional managers, players and fans. According to the Daily Mail in the buildup to the game, Manchester boss Erik ten Hag was asked about the tactics and described it as “annoying”. He’s not the first manager to say this, as he’s joined a list with Mikel Arteta and Jurgen Klopp.
In response to Erik ten Hag’s comments, Kieran Trippier has protected the tactic, claiming that it’s the best way for Newcastle to win and Eddie Howe implements it for one reason and one reason only: to get three points. They aren’t in the Premier League to make friends, after all.
The Magpies will be difficult to break down in this game. They’re a meme throughout the buildup of this match due to their bad luck with suspensions and cup ties. However, every player in the Newcastle squad will want to win this game to cap off their great season with a trophy, being the first side in England to do so this season.
Truth be told, Erik ten Hag must focus on prepping his attack and midfield to deal with the Newcastle defence. They aren’t going to play nice to suit him, after all.
What’s your score prediction for the Carabao Cup final between Manchester United and Newcastle United?