Overview
- Young left-back Nico O'Reilly scored both second-half goals, capitalizing first after Kepa Arrizabalaga spilled Rayan Cherki's cross and then heading in from a Matheus Nunes delivery following Rodri's pass.
- The victory is Manchester City's ninth League Cup title, with Pep Guardiola claiming his fifth in the competition as manager.
- City ended a near two-year wait for silverware days after their Champions League elimination, securing momentum for the run-in.
- Goalkeeper James Trafford, preferred in the final, preserved a first-half stalemate with stops from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka before City took control.
- Guardiola praised Arsenal as one of Europe's top sides and reached 40 career trophies, while the Gunners stay in contention in the Champions League and FA Cup.