Mikel Arteta Defends Kepa Decision After Costly Error in Carabao Cup Final Defeat

Mikel Arteta has stood firmly by his decision to start Kepa Arrizabalaga in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City, despite the goalkeeper’s costly mistake playing a major role in the result.

It was a painful afternoon for Arsenal at Wembley. After months of strong performances and growing belief, the Gunners fell short on the big stage, losing 2-0 to a well-organised City side. While the defeat cannot be pinned on a single moment, Kepa’s error for the opening goal proved to be a turning point in the match.

A moment that changed everything

The game was still finely balanced when the decisive moment arrived. Kepa, who had been trusted to start after featuring throughout the competition, failed to deal cleanly with a routine ball into the box. The loose touch allowed Nico O’Reilly to react quickly and score from close range.

In finals, such moments often define the outcome. Arsenal had been competitive up to that point, but conceding in that manner gave City both the lead and the confidence to take control. Just minutes later, O’Reilly struck again to double the advantage, effectively putting the game beyond Arsenal’s reach.

Arteta stands by his call

Speaking after the match, Arteta made it clear he had no regrets about his selection.

“I understand the criticism,” he admitted. “But I have to do what I feel is right and honest and what is fair.”

The Arsenal manager explained that Kepa had played a key role in the club’s journey to the final, featuring in every round of the competition. Dropping him for the final, in Arteta’s view, would have sent the wrong message to the squad.

“I think we have an outstanding keeper in Kepa,” he said. “He’s played all the competition and helped us get here. It would have been very unfair to do something different.”

It is a stance that highlights Arteta’s approach to squad management. Rather than treating cup competitions as separate from the league, he values consistency and rewards players who contribute along the way.

The balance between loyalty and results

However, football at the highest level often demands difficult decisions. While loyalty is important, finals are usually about selecting the strongest possible team.

That is where the debate lies.

Raya has been Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper in the Premier League and has delivered consistent performances throughout the season. His experience and reliability might have provided more security in such a high-pressure match.

At the same time, Arteta’s decision reflects a broader philosophy — one that prioritises trust and fairness within the squad. By sticking with Kepa, he showed belief in his players, even if the outcome did not go as planned.

“Errors are part of football,” Arteta added. “Today, unfortunately, it happened in a crucial moment.”

A setback, not the end

Despite the disappointment, Arteta was quick to shift focus towards the bigger picture. Arsenal remain in contention for other honours, and the manager is determined to use the defeat as motivation.

“Have some perspective on it,” he urged. “What this team has done in the last eight months has been incredible.”

It is a reminder that one result, even in a final, does not define an entire season. Arsenal have shown significant progress, both in their style of play and their consistency.

Arteta believes the pain of defeat can fuel a strong finish.

“We’re going to use this disappointment and fire in the belly to have the most amazing two months that we’ve ever had together,” he said.

Injury concerns add to the challenge

As Arsenal look to bounce back, they may have to do so without Eberechi Eze, who missed the final due to a calf injury.

Arteta confirmed that the situation is still unclear. “We have to do another scan in six or seven days and wait and see the results,” he explained.

Eze’s absence was felt in the final, as Arsenal lacked creativity and attacking spark at key moments. If he is sidelined for an extended period, it could pose another challenge during a crucial stage of the season.

Lessons from Wembley

For Arsenal, this defeat offers important lessons.

First, it highlights how small errors can have huge consequences in big games. Against top teams like Manchester City, there is little room for mistakes.

Second, it raises questions about decision-making under pressure. Whether it is team selection or moments on the pitch, the margins are incredibly fine.

Finally, it reinforces the importance of mental strength. How Arsenal respond to this setback will define their season far more than the defeat itself.