Liverpool and Newcastle learn European place and prize money for Carabao Cup final

Liverpool and Newcastle are set to clash at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final, with both teams eyeing not only the trophy but also the financial rewards and European opportunities tied to victory.

For Liverpool, led by manager Arne Slot, this final represents a chance to secure their first silverware under his tenure. After an emphatic second-leg triumph over Spurs in the semi-finals, the Anfield club arrives at Wembley with momentum.

Meanwhile, Newcastle, managed by Eddie Howe, seeks to end a decades-long trophy drought. A win would mark their first major triumph since lifting the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup in 1969 and their first domestic cup victory since 1955.

Newcastle’s journey to the final involved a memorable semi-final victory over Arsenal, defeating the Gunners both home and away.

This marks their second Carabao Cup final in three years, having fallen short against Manchester United in 2023. For Newcastle, the stakes are high, with the potential to rewrite history and deliver a long-awaited trophy for their passionate fanbase.

While the glory of winning the cup is paramount, the financial incentives also hold significance. The victors will take home £100,000, while the runners-up will earn £50,000. Although these sums pale in comparison to the vast revenues generated by Premier League clubs, they remain a meaningful reward for the winners.

Beyond the monetary prize, the Carabao Cup champions will secure a spot in the UEFA Conference League if they have not already qualified for European competition through their league position.

However, recent developments in this season’s European tournaments suggest the Premier League may gain an additional European spot next term. Despite this, the EFL has clarified that any bonus spots will be distributed based on league standings rather than cup performances.

This ruling eliminates the possibility of the Carabao Cup winners receiving a Europa League spot, regardless of their success at Wembley.

For Liverpool, who currently hold a commanding lead at the top of the Premier League table, the Conference League qualification is unlikely to be relevant.

The Anfield club is on track for a guaranteed spot in next season’s Champions League, making the European berth tied to the Carabao Cup more of a formality.

Newcastle, however, could stand to benefit significantly from the automatic qualification. Last season, Howe’s side narrowly missed out on European football, finishing seventh and just outside the Conference League spots.

At the time of writing, Newcastle occupies the same position in the Premier League, making a Carabao Cup victory a potential lifeline for European qualification.

Eddie Howe acknowledged the significance of the journey to Wembley, highlighting the growth and resilience of his squad. Speaking after the semi-final victory, he reflected on how their Champions League campaign had shaped the team.

“We have come a long way since then – the Champions League does that to you; it is so testing and unique,” Howe told BBC Radio 5 Live. “Naturally, for the big games, a lot of the players have been there before, and we are used to the quick turnarounds and work smarter.”

Howe expressed optimism about his team’s chances at Wembley, emphasizing the energy and determination within the squad. Despite acknowledging their limited squad depth, he remains confident in their ability to rise to the occasion.

“There is a good feeling about the squad. We are tight on numbers but big on energy. I would love to think we can go to Wembley and perform better than we did previously,” Howe added. His comments reflect the desire not only to claim the trophy but also to showcase the progress Newcastle has made as a club.

The Carabao Cup final represents more than just a battle for silverware; it is a clash of aspirations and a potential turning point for both teams. For Liverpool, it offers an opportunity to solidify their dominance under Arne Slot and add another trophy to their illustrious history.

For Newcastle, it is a chance to break free from the shadows of their past and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in English football. As the two sides prepare for this pivotal encounter, the stage is set for a memorable showdown at Wembley.