The Blues didn't have it all their own way in a hard-fought clash, but reaching a third semi-final in 18 months provided further evidence of Maresca's impact since he arrived from Leicester in 2024.

Bruno Fernandes sent Manchester United into the League Cup last 16 as the Portugal midfielder punished a howler from Aston Villa keeper Robin Olsen in Thursday's 4-2 win.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola brands the ball used for the match against Wolverhampton Wanderer’s as “unacceptable for a high-level competition.”