In a press conference ahead of the game, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was quoted as saying, "In a derby, it's about adrenalin and atmosphere." However, Manchester United had little atmosphere to count on during their last meeting with Manchester City. The Red Devils emerged 2-1 winners at the Etihad early in December in what was a shock defeat for Pep Guardiola's side. Despite having a close-to-full-strength squad at his disposal, goals from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial condemned Man City to defeat. However, Manchester City have done relatively well since that defeat. Barring a 2-3 defeat against Wolves, Man City have won all of their matches since the last Manchester derby. Interestingly, this will be Man United's 15th EFL Cup (Carabao Cup) semi-final. Only Liverpool (17) have made more appearances in the competition's history.