Despite facing the ignominy of entering at the second-round stage this season, Manchester United will be a popular pick among punters at 12/1 in the EFL Cup outright winner odds.
Last term's Premier League woes and a Europa League final loss to Tottenham have left the Red Devils without European football during the 2025-26 campaign. That may be bad news for the financial gurus at Old Trafford, but it could help United's rebuilding process in the league and aid their cause in knockout competitions.
Man United
Amorim Under Presure
Ruben Amorim is doing his best to clear out the dead wood from his squad, but still has a large pool of highly-paid players to pick from and will have no excuses when it comes to chasing cup glory.
Without any European distractions, many of those proven internationals should be champing at the bit for a chance to bring the feel-good factor back to the theatre of dreams.
Sir Alex Ferguson took the EFL Cup seriously enough to triumph four times, while United lifted this trophy under Jose Mourinho in 2017 and Erik ten Hag in 2023. If Amorim can revive the club's fortunes, they may have the last laugh on those mocking this year's early EFL Cup start by celebrating at Wembley next March.
It is no surprise to see Liverpool at the head of the EFL Cup outright winner betting on 5/1 after reaching the last two finals, prevailing for a record 10th time in 2024 before being runners-up this year.
Man United @ 12/1
Man City
European Commitments A Factor
Manchester City are next best on 6/1, with the Blues having lifted the trophy for four straight years under Pep Guardiola between 2018 and 2021, as well as being successful in 2014 and 2016.
Both have large and talented squads but must cope with an extended Champions’ League group stage alongside Arsenal, Chelsea and EFL Cup holders Newcastle.
Tottenham, Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace must also negotiate European commitments, so it may be worth exploring other options for a value bet.
Man City @ 6/1
West Ham
Hammers Have Value Appeal
West Ham appear well placed to make good progress this term after showing encouraging signs following the arrival of Graham Potter in January.
The Hammers had a competitive Premier League record of five wins, five draws and eight defeats under their new boss - and only one of those losses came by more than one goal.
Losing Mohammed Kudus to Tottenham was a blow, but United generally have a settled squad containing a number of experienced performers. Fears of being dragged into a relegation battle are relatively low at this stage, so West Ham may well be ready to target a good run in the EFL Cup.
West Ham @ 33/1
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