Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka will find himself in a unique position when his team take on Manchester United in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday (February 26).
The Slovakian has made appearances for both teams this season and could lift the trophy or win a medal.
In the summer transfer window, Dubravka joined the Red Devils on a season-long loan. He struggled to get playing time under manager Erik ten Hag and made just two appearances for the club. Both appearances, however, came in the Carabao Cup, against Aston Villa in the third round and Burnley subsequently.
However, the oddity of the matter lies in the fact that Newcastle recalled Dubravka in the January transfer window before his loan spell was up. The move was sparked by the Magpies sending Karl Darlow to Hull City on loan.
Since Dubravka has already made appearances for Manchester United in the Carabao Cup, he will be cup-tied and unable to play for his team. This means that Newcastle manager Eddie Howe will have to search for Loris Karius, a player who has never played for the Magpies before.
If Newcastle win the match, Dubravka will be able to lift the trophy but will not be able to get a winner’s medal. However, he could get a medal if his team loses to Ten Hag’s men, as the competition rules state:
“In addition to the Cup, the Management Committee will present 30 souvenirs to the winning Club in the Final Round and 30 souvenirs to the losing Club. Additional souvenirs may be given with the consent of the Management Committee but they will be the responsibility of the applicant Club.”
Casemiro praises his Manchester United teammate
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has congratulated his teammate Bruno Fernandes. Before the team’s final Carabao Cup clash, the Brazilian referred to the Portuguese as the team’s ‘best player’.
He said:
“Before coming to Manchester United, I would turn on the television and watch their games… and he was the best player.”
“He’s one of the guys that helps up front and in midfield, he’s part of that transition. He’s our best player there.”
Manchester United are yet to lose a game that both Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro have started together. #MUFC https://t.co/Bbt4EEhLGl
Fernandes and Casemiro have proven vital pieces in Manchester United’s strong performances under Erik ten Hag this season. The defensive midfielder, who joined from Real Madrid in a £70m deal, has helped stabilize a defense that looked leaky at the start of the season.