Premier League Cup (England) 2026/27

The Premier League Cup is a knockout tournament for academy sides in the English football league system. Organised by the Premier League, it runs parallel to the Premier League 2 league structure. The competition currently features Under-21 and Under-18 teams from clubs within the elite player performance framework. It operates distinct from the FA Youth Cup and the EFL Trophy, serving as a specific pathway for higher-tier youth development.

Its modern format was established in 2012 as part of a wider restructuring of English youth football. Initially launched as the U21 Premier League Cup, the event has evolved alongside changes in age categories. The age limit was raised to Under-23 in 2016 before reverting to Under-21 in 2022 to align with the Premier League 2 regulations. This adjustment ensures the competition remains a direct fixture for the top echelons of English academy talent.

The tournament structure typically begins with a group stage, where teams are divided into smaller pools. The top sides from each group progress to a knockout phase comprising the Last 16, Quarter-finals, Semi-finals, and the Final. Knockout matches are played as single-leg ties, culminating in a decisive final. While the format incorporates group play to determine progression, the latter stages provide a clear route to the championship trophy.

Participants include U21 teams from Premier League clubs alongside invited sides from Championship, League One, and League Two academies meeting specific criteria. The competition does not involve promotion or relegation, focusing purely on the outcome of the cup ties. Over its recent history, the title has been secured by a variety of clubs, with winners including Arsenal, Reading, Southampton, West Ham United, Swansea City, Aston Villa, Everton, West Bromwich Albion, Brentford, Fulham, and Queens Park Rangers. The 2024–25 title was claimed by Queens Park Rangers following a victory in the final.