The English champions Manchester City beat the troubled Chelsea 2-0 (0-0) in the third round of the League Cup without some of their stars.
Riyad Mahrez (53rd minute) and Julián Álvarez (58th) scored for the hosts at the Etihad Stadium, while ex-Dortmunder Erling Haaland and attacking stars Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden stayed on the bench.
In the Cityzens goal, the former Bielefeld Stefan Ortega convinced with some brilliant deeds.
Arsenal and Tottenham slip up
Premier League leaders FC Arsenal lost 3-1 (1-1) to Brighton & Hove Albion at home without many stars.
After the Gunners initially took the lead through Edward Nketiah (20′), ex-Arsenal pro Danny Welbeck (27’/penalty), Kaoru Mitoma (58′) and Tariq Lamptey (71′) scored for Brighton. Coach Mikel Arteta rested Gabriel Jesus, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, among others.
Tottenham Hotspur embarrassed themselves with a majority and with national striker Harry Kane in the starting eleven with 0: 2 (0: 0) at bottom of the league Nottingham Forest.
In contrast to the FA Cup, the League Cup in England is considered rather insignificant and even annoying for some clubs. That’s why many coaches spare their stars and give the youngsters a chance in the cup.