Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso described the Carabao Cup as the "least important" competition following Chelsea's penalty shootout defeat to Liverpool in the fourth round on October 29, 2026. The match at Anfield ended in a draw after regular time, with Liverpool advancing on penalties.
Alonso's comments came in the wake of the high-profile knockout tie, which saw Chelsea eliminated from the domestic cup competition. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder downplayed the significance of the tournament relative to other priorities.
