The Carabao Cup returns this week with 35 first-round matches taking place across Tuesday and Wednesday. Manchester United are in uncharted territory this season as they prepare to join 10 other Premier League clubs with no European football this season in the hat for the second round draw.

The Red Devils endured a nightmare 2024/25 season, finishing 15th in the Premier League, the lowest in the club's history. Ruben Amorim's side also failed to salvage a backdoor entry into the Champions League when they lost 1-0 against 17th-place Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final.

Express Sport explains all you need to know about the Carabao Cup second round draw, which will feature United for the first time since 2014.

When is the Carabao Cup second round draw?

The Carabao Cup second round draw will take place during the build-up to Birmingham City's clash against Sheffield United on Wednesday night.

Mark Chapman will host Sky Sports' coverage of the first-round clash, including the draw, which will commence at around 7.20pm at St. Andrew's.

The Carabao Cup draw is split into Northern and Southern sections until the third round, meaning United will not have to travel too far if their match is away from Old Trafford.

The EFL will publish ball numbers on their social media channels on Wednesday morning once Tuesday's fixtures are complete.

Round two will take place during the week commencing August 25.

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How to watch the Carabao Cup second round draw?

If you do not have access to Sky Sports, you can tune into the Carabao Cup second round draw for free on the Sky Sports Football YouTube channel.

It will also be streamed live from the Sky Sports Football account on X.

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Which Premier League clubs are entering?

With a staggering nine Premier League clubs in European action this season, just 11 will enter the Carabao Cup in round two.

United are joined by Bournemouth, Brentford, Brighton and Hove Albion, Burnley, Everton, Fulham, Leeds United, Sunderland, West Ham United and Wolves.

Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur will enter round three due to their Champions League involvement.

Europa League teams Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest, and Conference League side Crystal Palace, will also be in the hat for round three.