Former Liverpool man, Jamie Carragher has highlighted the error made by manager, Mikel Arteta that led to Arsenal’s defeat in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City.
The Gunners experienced a disappointing 2-0 loss to their title rivals, thereby missing the opportunity to secure the first trophy of the 2025-26 season.
Carragher expressed on X his belief that Arteta erred in opting to start Kepa Arrizabalaga instead of the first-choice goalkeeper, David Raya.
He emphasized that the duration of the club’s trophy drought should have influenced Arteta’s decision-making during team selection.
“It was a significant mistake by Mikel Arteta to select Kepa over Raya. When a club has gone so long without a trophy, it is essential to field your strongest team in a final for the sake of your supporters,” he stated on X.
Arteta defended his choice to start Kepa, asserting that it was only just to reward the Spaniard, who has been the goalkeeper for every Carabao Cup match this season.
The 31-year-old joined the club last summer to serve as backup for his fellow countryman, David Raya and has only participated in cup matches.
Kepa Arrizabalaga ultimately proved costly for Arsenal, making a critical error at the hour mark when he failed to secure a high cross from Rayan Cherki, which allowed Nico O’Reilly to score.
The former Chelsea goalkeeper did not make a single save throughout the match, as Manchester City converted both of their shots on target into goals.
David Raya has been in outstanding form for the Gunners this season, leading the Premier League with 15 clean sheets.