Pep Guardiola has addressed the media ahead of Manchester City’s EFL Cup final showdown with Arsenal.

The first major silverware of the 2025–26 English season will be decided on Sunday at Wembley Stadium, where the two sides meet once again.

Arsenal head into the clash unbeaten in their last six encounters with City and previously got the better of them at Wembley, winning on penalties in the 2023 Community Shield.

Despite that record, Guardiola boasts an impressive history in the competition. The City boss has lifted the trophy four times and now has the chance to become the first manager to win the EFL Cup on five occasions.

Trafford set to start

Guardiola confirmed that James Trafford will start in goal ahead of Gianluigi Donnarumma, following recent remarks from the young goalkeeper about his limited playing time.

Calling it a “big moment” for the team, Guardiola remained calm about the situation, acknowledging that players may feel either satisfied or frustrated depending on their role.

He stressed that the focus must remain on performing at the highest level when called upon, with decisions to be evaluated at the end of the season.

The City manager also expressed strong satisfaction with Trafford’s recent displays, stating he is “beyond happy” with the goalkeeper’s form.

The question of a potential quadruple is beginning to surround Arsenal, who currently sit top of the Premier League and are still competing across all four major competitions this season. Victory in the EFL Cup would significantly strengthen their chances of achieving the remarkable feat.

Pep Guardiola was full of praise for the North London side, who booked their place in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals earlier this week after overcoming Bayer Leverkusen.

He highlighted Arsenal’s tactical intelligence and all-round quality, noting their ability to control different phases of the game—from deep defending to build-up play, as well as their effectiveness in winning second balls and adapting their style when needed.

Guardiola also pointed to their strong European form, having won all their group-stage matches before drawing with Leverkusen, underlining the scale of the challenge his side faces.

When asked about Arsenal’s quadruple ambitions, Guardiola acknowledged the possibility, stating that as long as they remain in contention across all four competitions, the dream is very much alive.