Manchester City had little trouble in the third round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday evening, comfortably dispatching League One side Huddersfield.
Pep Guardiola’s youthful squad put on a confident display, with Phil Foden leading the charge and hinting at a return to the form that won him the Premier League Player of the Season award 18 months ago.
Young Talent Steals the Spotlight
City’s youth system continues to flourish, with 10 academy graduates named in the squad for this match.
Phil Foden stood out with a goal and an assist, while newcomers Divine Mukasa and brothers Jaden and Reigan Heskey were handed senior debuts.
Guardiola’s faith in the young players was clear, and the youngsters did not disappoint.
Divine Mukasa Impresses on Debut
One City staff member told Daily Mail Sport that Divine Mukasa “just looks like a first team player,” and his performance against Huddersfield confirmed it.
The 18-year-old, who has trained with the senior squad all season, assisted Foden’s stunning opener in the 19th minute.
Mukasa’s ability to adapt to Guardiola’s system was evident, as he operated as a false nine—a position new to him—and tracked back 40 yards to halt a counterattack.
His technical skills, physicality, and composure in tight spaces suggest he could become a mainstay in the squad.
Despite a summer loan approach from League One Cardiff City, City opted to keep Mukasa close, believing he was ready to integrate with the senior squad.
His debut performance signals that more opportunities may be on the horizon.
Jaden Heskey Carves His Own Path
Jaden Heskey, son of former England striker Emile Heskey, made his City debut from the bench, moving away from his father’s shadow.
Previously a forward, Heskey has been converted into a central midfielder (No. 8) by City coach Ben Wilkinson.
He admitted to feeling nervous training with the first team but adapted seamlessly during his introduction.
“I’d say I prefer midfield,” Heskey said. “You’re more involved in the game. It’s a lot more running but I feel like I’ve adapted.”
Lee Grant Making an Impact at Huddersfield
On the Huddersfield side, former goalkeeper Lee Grant is quickly establishing himself as a promising manager.
In just two months, he has pushed the club into playoff contention in League One.
Having spent years coaching at Manchester United and working under Kieran McKenna at Ipswich Town, Grant is implementing his philosophy and demanding intensity from his squad.
The team showed glimpses of that intensity during this tie, despite supporters’ frustration after a goalless draw against Burton Albion last weekend.
Kalvin Phillips’ Return Draws a Mixed Reaction
Another talking point was Kalvin Phillips, who made a late substitute appearance—his first City outing since the 2023 Club World Cup.
Given his Leeds roots, the home crowd greeted him with boos, highlighting the lingering rivalry.
“We’re on the pitch if Kalvin scores,” rang out from the away end.
City’s Carabao Cup progression showcased the club’s depth and the exciting potential of its young players, while Huddersfield’s performance offered signs of promise under their new manager.