Arteta defends Kepa selection after Carabao Cup final defeat to City

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Mikel Arteta has defended his decision to start Kepa Arrizabalaga over David Raya in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City, while urging his team to channel their disappointment into an “amazing” end to the season.

The Spanish goalkeeper was given the nod ahead of his compatriot after playing in every round leading to the final, keeping three clean sheets and saving a crucial penalty in the quarter-final shootout against Crystal Palace. However, Kepa’s mistake handed City their opening goal, leading to scrutiny over the manager’s selection.

Manager stands by goalkeeper choice

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Arteta remained resolute about his decision.

“I understand that but I have to do what I feel is right, which is honest and which is fair, and I think we have an outstanding keeper in Kepa,” the Arsenal manager said. “He’s played all the competition and I think it would have been very, very unfair for him and for the team to do something different.”

The manager emphasized that the selection was based on Kepa’s contributions throughout the tournament run, adding: “We are guided by what we’ve seen and what he’s done in the competition, and he helped us to go all the way through here.”

Looking ahead despite disappointment

Despite the setback ending Arsenal’s hopes of lifting silverware for the first time in six years, Arteta struck a defiant tone about the remainder of the campaign.

“We have to have some perspective on it, and what this team has done in the last eight months has been incredible,” he said. “We’re going to use this disappointment and this fire in the belly to have the most amazing two months that we have ever together.”

The loss represents a missed opportunity for the Gunners, who had reached their first Wembley final with fans present in eight years. The performance level fell short of expectations, with issues extending beyond the goalkeeper position throughout the team.

Adding to Arsenal’s concerns, Eberechi Eze picked up a calf problem during the match that could sideline him for an extended period. The midfielder will miss England duty and faces further scans next week to determine the full extent of the injury.

With an international break now providing time for reflection, Arteta’s side will need to regroup quickly as they continue their pursuit of major honours this season despite this Wembley setback.