Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy kicked off his interim managerial stint with an emphatic 5-2 victory over Leicester City in the League Cup, securing the team a spot in the quarter-finals. In a night of action-packed matches, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Newcastle also booked places in the final eight, while Chelsea faced elimination after a 2-0 defeat by Newcastle.
Van Nistelrooy, a fan favorite during his playing days, was named caretaker manager following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag due to United’s poor start to the season. Reports indicate that Ruben Amorim, the manager of Sporting Lisbon, remains United’s primary target for a permanent appointment. However, Amorim is expected to remain at Sporting until the November international break, pending final negotiations on his release.
In his first outing as manager, Van Nistelrooy saw his squad’s potential shine as United dominated the first half with four goals. Casemiro ignited the game with a powerful shot into the top corner, followed by a well-timed finish from Alejandro Garnacho. Leicester, fielding a rotated squad, quickly countered with a goal from Bilal El Khannoussi, but United responded confidently. A deflected free-kick from Bruno Fernandes restored the two-goal advantage, and Casemiro further extended the lead with his third goal in two games. Leicester’s Conor Coady managed a consolation goal, but Fernandes sealed United’s win by capitalizing on a defensive mistake.
Liverpool’s Gakpo Shines Again
Cody Gakpo starred in Liverpool’s thrilling 3-2 win over Brighton. Gakpo, a Dutch international who has struggled for goals in the Premier League and Champions League this season, has come alive in the League Cup, scoring four times in two appearances. The forward showcased his finishing skill with two powerful strikes, cutting in from the left to fire beyond the Brighton defense. Luis Diaz also contributed to Liverpool’s tally, while Brighton’s Simon Adingra and Tariq Lamptey added late goals to keep the match close. Manager Arne Slot’s strong start with Liverpool continues as they move closer to silverware.
Arsenal Dominates Preston with Nwaneri’s Breakout Moment
Arsenal advanced to the quarter-finals with a decisive 3-0 victory over Championship team Preston. Teen sensation Ethan Nwaneri impressed with a spectacular goal, while Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz added to the scoreline. This performance marks a significant milestone for the 16-year-old Nwaneri, who continues to earn praise for his rapid development.
Newcastle Overcomes Chelsea for Quarter-Final Berth
In another high-profile matchup, Newcastle avenged their recent Premier League loss to Chelsea with a 2-0 victory. Goals from Alexander Isak and an own goal by Chelsea’s Axel Disasi within the first half proved enough to secure the win. Newcastle, under pressure to deliver results after a five-game winless run in the league, hopes to end its 55-year trophy drought in this tournament.
Crystal Palace Surges Past Aston Villa
Crystal Palace built on their recent Premier League success with a 2-1 win over Aston Villa, courtesy of goals by Eberechi Eze and Daichi Kamada. With newfound momentum, Palace is keen to make a statement in the League Cup this season.
This quarter-final lineup promises an exciting series of clashes, with several top clubs now within reach of League Cup glory. The tournament offers Van Nistelrooy and other managers a prime opportunity to make their mark as the competition intensifies.
