Can Spurs Win the Carabao Cup? Ranking All Eight Quarter-Finalists

The Carabao Cup has reached its quarter-final stages, and Tottenham Hotspur fans are buzzing about the possibility of silverware. Under new manager Ange Postecoglou, Spurs have enjoyed a solid start to the season. But, could they go all the way and lift the trophy that has eluded them since 2008? Let's take a closer look at the remaining eight teams in the competition and where Tottenham rank among them.

1. **Manchester City**

Manchester City are perennial favorites in any cup competition they enter, and with good reason. **Pep Guardiola’s side** has lifted the Carabao Cup multiple times in recent years and boasts a deep, talented squad capable of coping with the rigors of multiple competitions. - Key players: Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne - Strengths: Endless squad depth, tactical genius - Weaknesses: Rarely any, but may rotate heavily

2. **Liverpool**

Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp are always tough competitors. Although the Reds may prioritize the Premier League or Champions League, **a cup run** is always on the cards. Their recent resurgence means they will be a handful for any opponent. - Key players: Mohamed Salah, Alisson Becker - Strengths: Experience, high-press system - Weaknesses: Defensive vulnerabilities at times

3. **Arsenal**

Mikel Arteta’s side continues to build on their success. Given their recent title challenge, **the Gunners** will be keen to grow their trophy collection, including domestic cups like the Carabao Cup. - Key players: Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice - Strengths: Young, energetic team - Weaknesses: Inconsistent against lower-ranked sides

4. **Tottenham Hotspur**

But what about Spurs? They’ve undoubtedly been playing well, and Postecoglou’s tactics have rejuvenated the squad. They pose a real threat to the remaining teams, especially with the momentum they’ve built in the league. However, fans will wonder if it’s finally their time to break through. - Key players: Son Heung-min, James Maddison - Strengths: Improved attacking play, tactical clarity under Postecoglou - Weaknesses: Defensive fragility, lack of squad depth

5. **Newcastle United**

Newcastle United reached the final of the Carabao Cup last year, and Eddie Howe will be keen to go one step further and secure silverware. **The Magpies** are a team on the rise, and they will certainly be formidable. - Key players: Bruno Guimarães, Alexander Isak - Strengths: Tactical discipline, solid defense - Weaknesses: Inexperience, lack of depth in key positions

6. **West Ham United**

After winning the Europa Conference League last season, West Ham will be eager to capitalize on any domestic opportunity. **David Moyes has overseen** a resurgence at the club, and lifting the Carabao Cup would enhance their progress. - Key players: Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paquetá - Strengths: Strong in set-pieces, counter-attacking football - Weaknesses: Struggles with consistency

7. **Aston Villa**

Unai Emery’s Aston Villa are a team to watch. They’ve been impressive both in domestic and European competitions this season. However, they may find it difficult to juggle everything. - Key players: Ollie Watkins, Douglas Luiz - Strengths: Counter-pressing, squad flexibility - Weaknesses: Vulnerable to pressing teams

8. **Bournemouth**

Finally, Bournemouth is the most surprising team in the quarter-finals. **Despite being underdogs**, cup football is unpredictable, and they cannot be written off entirely. - Key players: Dominic Solanke, Marcus Tavernier - Strengths: Nothing to lose, defensively solid on their day - Weaknesses: Squad quality, lack of experience at this level

Conclusion: Can Spurs Win the Carabao Cup?

Tottenham certainly have a fighting chance to go all the way in the Carabao Cup this season. While teams like **Manchester City** and **Liverpool** pose formidable obstacles, the fact remains that Spurs have the quality and the tactical acumen to challenge for the trophy under Postecoglou. The key to success will be how they manage their squad in the upcoming fixtures. If they can stay injury-free, especially in defense, Spurs may indeed lift their first piece of silverware in over a decade.