Arteta: Arsenal Must Seize the Moment and Win the Carabao Cup Final

 

Mikel Arteta has challenged his Arsenal players to finally prove they are winners as they prepare for Sunday's Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley.

The Gunners head into the clash full of confidence after a commanding Champions League victory over Bayer Leverkusen midweek, where goals from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice secured a 2-0 second-leg win (3-1 aggregate) and progression to the quarter-finals. Arteta, however, was quick to clarify that his substitutions—resting key players like Martin Zubimendi, Ben White, Leandro Trossard, and Eze—were purely for that game, not pre-final rotation.

"Every decision was focused on today’s game," Arteta said post-match. "Not that many [minutes managed], I don’t think, and that tells you how difficult it is to achieve it. Now we can start to think about Sunday."

With the final now front and center, Arteta's message is clear: this is the moment for Arsenal to end years of near-misses and deliver tangible success. The club has endured three consecutive second-place Premier League finishes and multiple semi-final exits in cups and Europe, leaving fans and critics questioning their ability to cross the line in big games.

Reaching this final—Arsenal's first League Cup showpiece since 2018 and first major Wembley appearance since the 2020 FA Cup win—represents a golden opportunity. Arteta has described the prospect as "magical" and a vital energy boost amid a grueling schedule.

"We have a beautiful final to play on Sunday," he added, urging his squad to embrace the occasion. The Spaniard has repeatedly highlighted how lifting silverware would "create the right path" and transform the team's momentum, especially as they battle City in the Premier League title race and push in Europe.

Facing Pep Guardiola's side adds extra spice: a win would not only secure Arsenal's first trophy in six years but also strike a psychological blow against their title rivals. Arteta knows the stakes—success here could spark the belief needed for a genuine quadruple challenge.

As preparations intensify, the Arsenal boss is leaving no doubt about expectations. This isn't just another game; it's a test of character and a chance to silence doubters.

"Enjoy tonight and prepare," Arteta concluded. For Arsenal, the time to prove they are true winners has arrived.