Clough backs move to open season with EFL Cup games

Mansfield Town boss Nigel Clough says moving the Carabao Cup first round to the weekend before the new EFL season could benefit the competition.

In a change to the schedule, first‑round fixtures will take place on 7–9 August, one week before the league campaign begins. The competition is traditionally played in midweek, with the final staged at Wembley on a Sunday.

Clough has twice won the competition as a player with Nottingham Forest in 1989 and 1990, and also guided Burton Albion to the semi‑finals in 2019 where they were beaten 10-0 on aggregate by Manchester City.

“It’s a funny one,” the 60-year-old said. “For the good of the competition, the week before the season starts everybody plays their full team, so I think there’ll be fewer weakened sides next weekend and you’ll get fewer shocks. But some people will still view it as a pre‑season game because it’s before the first league match.”

The adjustment to the competition schedule follows consultation between the EFL and its clubs, with the aim of easing early‑season congestion.

In previous years, teams have often faced three matches in quick succession, with the opening round falling between two league fixtures. The new timing offers players a longer rest period and gives managers the chance to field stronger sides.

“I think we did it a few years ago and I don’t mind it,” Clough said. “What you’re guaranteed the week before the season starts is a really good, proper game. And with a place in the second round at stake, there’s something to play for as well.”

Mansfield welcome one of Clough’s former clubs, Sheffield United, to the One Call Stadium on Sunday in the first round, before turning their attention to League One and a home fixture against Doncaster Rovers.