Overview
- City thrashed League One Exeter 10-1 at the Etihad to advance, their biggest win since a 10-1 in 1987.
- January signing Antoine Semenyo marked his debut with a goal and an assist.
- Academy influence told as Max Alleyne opened the scoring and 17-year-old Ryan McAidoo and Nico O’Reilly also netted, with Rico Lewis scoring twice and Rodri striking from distance.
- Guardiola was absent from the technical area due to a one‑match suspension for accumulated yellow cards and watched from the stands.
- Managing injuries and AFCON call‑ups, City named a strong side that included Erling Haaland, and the fourth‑round draw is scheduled for Monday, January 12.