Mikel Arteta’s choice to start Kepa Arrizabalaga in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley has come under intense scrutiny after Arsenal suffered a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City on Monday, March 23, 2026. The decision proved costly as critical errors from Kepa shifted the momentum firmly in favor of Pep Guardiola’s side.
The Spanish goalkeeper failed to handle a cross from Rayan Cherki, allowing young striker Nico O’Reilly to score the opening goal. Just four minutes later, O’Reilly struck again, cementing Manchester City’s victory and leaving Arsenal to ponder a missed opportunity for silverware.
Kepa vs David Raya: A Questioned Choice
Arteta’s decision to omit first-choice goalkeeper David Raya, who has kept the most clean sheets in the Premier League this season, sparked widespread debate. Critics argued that a final of this magnitude demanded the most in-form goalkeeper between the sticks, rather than one selected out of sentiment.
In contrast, City’s backup, James Trafford, excelled in the match, producing a series of crucial saves—including a triple stop against Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka—and finishing with a clean sheet. The contrast in goalkeeping performances only amplified questions about Arteta’s decision.
Arteta Defends His Decision as Fairness
Despite mounting criticism, Arteta has defended his choice to field Kepa. The Spanish manager argued that playing Kepa was a matter of fairness, given the goalkeeper’s contributions throughout the Carabao Cup campaign.
“I have to do what I believe is right and fair,” Arteta said after the match. “Kepa has played in all the Carabao Cup matches. It would have been very unfair to replace him in the final.”
Arteta’s stance highlights his desire to recognize players who have been integral to the team’s journey, even if it meant taking a risk in a high-stakes match.
Critics Say Sentiment Over Performance
Despite Arteta’s reasoning, the outcome has reignited debate about prioritizing sentiment over performance in crucial matches. Kepa’s record in Carabao Cup finals has not been favorable, with this loss marking his third defeat in such matches.
European football analyst Julien Laurens argued that finals require a purely merit-based approach. “In a final like this, there is no room for sentimentality. You have to play the best team,” Laurens asserted.
Former Manchester City and England goalkeeper Joe Hart offered a nuanced perspective, emphasizing the pressures goalkeepers face in pivotal moments. “Never feel sorry for a goalkeeper. That’s part of the profession,” Hart said. “Most of the time, they perform well, but the big moments are what people remember.”
Lessons for Arteta
The defeat underscores a significant lesson for Arteta: decision-making in finals carries amplified consequences. Choosing between loyalty to players and fielding the strongest side is a delicate balance, one that can determine the legacy of a match or tournament.
Arsenal’s last major trophy was the FA Cup in 2020, and the loss at Wembley extends the club’s wait for silverware. While the team displayed flashes of quality throughout the season, the final highlighted areas where tactical choices and personnel selection are crucial.
Tactical Overview
Manchester City’s tactical setup under Pep Guardiola focused on exploiting Arsenal’s defensive vulnerabilities and capitalizing on quick transitions. The Citizens maintained control of possession and pace, pressuring the Gunners and creating openings that Nico O’Reilly converted with clinical precision.
Arsenal, lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, struggled to penetrate City’s disciplined defensive lines. Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice in midfield could not consistently shield the back four, while the attacking trio of Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard faced constant pressure. Viktor Gyokeres offered a focal point in attack, but opportunities were limited.
Moving Forward
For Arsenal, the loss provides both disappointment and insight. Arteta must weigh the merits of loyalty and fairness against performance when making selections for key matches. The experience will likely influence future decisions in finals or high-pressure encounters, as the club seeks to return to trophy-winning form.
Meanwhile, Manchester City’s victory highlights their dominance under Guardiola and the emergence of Nico O’Reilly as a rising star capable of delivering in decisive moments. The contrast between City’s composure and Arsenal’s missteps underscores the fine margins at the top level of English football.
Conclusion
Mikel Arteta’s decision to start Kepa Arrizabalaga in the Carabao Cup final ultimately proved costly as Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory, thanks in large part to Nico O’Reilly’s heroics. While Arteta cited fairness and recognition for Kepa’s contributions, critics argue that sentiment should not outweigh the need for the strongest lineup in a final.
Arsenal’s defeat extends their trophy drought since 2020, providing a stark reminder of the pressures and stakes in high-profile matches. The result also serves as a learning opportunity for Arteta, emphasizing the importance of decisive and merit-based choices in shaping outcomes at the highest level of competition.
For Manchester City, the win reinforces their domestic supremacy and showcases Guardiola’s tactical mastery, while Arsenal is left to reflect on the delicate balance between loyalty, fairness, and performance under pressure.
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