## Manchester United Carabao Cup Draw: Current Position
Manchester United still do not know who they will face in the Carabao Cup third round. The draw takes place on Wednesday evening, and this update reflects the position as it stands on 18 September 2026.
Michael Carrick leads United into the competition for the first time since taking charge at Old Trafford. The third round gives him an early chance to put his own stamp on a domestic cup run, following on from tactical analysis against Brighton earlier in the competition.
No opponent has been confirmed, and none should be assumed before the balls are drawn. This piece updates our original Carabao Cup draw update with the latest details on timing, broadcast coverage and the rules that will shape the rest of the competition.
## Manchester United’s History in the Competition
United’s most recent Carabao Cup success came in 2023, when they beat Newcastle United 2-0 in the final at Wembley. That victory remains the club’s last major trophy in the competition and a reminder of what a good cup run can deliver.
Last season told a very different story. United were eliminated by Grimsby Town, a side two divisions below them, after a 2-2 draw ended in a penalty shootout. It was an early and painful exit that still shapes expectations heading into this campaign.
Manchester City enter this season’s competition as holders after beating Arsenal 2-0 in last term’s final. Both clubs, along with the rest of the Premier League’s European contingent, will be in the hat alongside United once the third round is drawn.
## Manchester United Carabao Cup Third-Round Draw Details
The Carabao Cup third-round draw takes place on Wednesday evening, once Preston’s match against Everton has finished. Thirty-two teams go into the draw, and Manchester United are one of them.
The lineup splits into two groups. Twenty-three clubs have earned their place by winning their second-round ties, while nine Premier League clubs involved in European competition this season enter at this later stage, United among them.
Coverage of the draw is broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football, so supporters can follow the process and find out United’s opponent as soon as their ball comes out.
## What Happens Next
Third-round ties are scheduled across two staggered weeks, commencing 7 September and 14 September. United’s exact fixture date and kick-off time will depend on Wednesday’s draw and subsequent broadcast selection.
Every tie between now and the fifth round is played over a single leg. There are no replays. Any match still level after 90 minutes goes straight to a penalty shootout to decide who progresses.
The final is set for Wembley on 21 March 2027, giving United a clear path through the rounds if Carrick’s side can navigate Wednesday’s draw and the ties that follow. Off the pitch, attention has also turned to Premier League matters, including reaction ahead of the derby, though Wednesday’s draw remains the more immediate focus for the club.
Supporters will not have to wait long for clarity. Once Preston’s match against Everton concludes, the draw will confirm United’s third-round opponent, and this article will be updated as soon as that information is verified.
