Dickov Tips City to Upset Arsenal in Carabao Cup Final Despite Underdogs Tag

Paul Dickov is backing Manchester City to get the better of Arsenal when the two sides meet in Sunday's Carabao Cup final at Wembley, despite the Gunners' superior league position.

City arrive as underdogs, with Arsenal having opened up a commanding 10-point lead at the top of the Premier League whilst simultaneously pursuing an unprecedented quadruple. The Gunners' focus extends to the FA Cup and Champions League, where they harbour genuine aspirations of going all the way.

Yet Dickov believes this very situation could work in City's favour. Speaking to The Metro, the former Manchester City player suggested that Arsenal's sprawling list of objectives might dilute their concentration when it matters most.

"The landscape has shifted considerably in recent weeks," Dickov explained. "A fortnight ago, this cup final felt like a direct Premier League statement. Now that Arsenal sit 10 points clear, I'd argue the Premier League is essentially decided."

With the domestic title race effectively settled, Dickov reckons Arsenal's attentions may be divided. "Arsenal have considerably bigger battles to fight," he said. "The Champions League quarter-finals beckon with a favourable draw, and they're already runaway league leaders. Manchester City, by contrast, simply have more riding on this particular Sunday."

The former striker expects a goal-laden affair rather than a cagey stalemate. "These are the two finest teams in England by some distance," Dickov continued. "I genuinely anticipate goals. Sometimes these showpiece occasions deliver penalties after a drab 0-0, but I can't see that happening here."

Ultimately, Dickov believes City's hunger will prove decisive. "City will be hungrier for this trophy. Arsenal's eyes might wander towards the Premier League and European glory. That split focus could very well tip the scales in Manchester City's direction."