Mikel Arteta shared his thoughts after Arsenal’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg. The match was intense, with goals from Ben White, Viktor Gyokeres, and Martin Zubimendi shining through.
On Performance:
Arteta praised the players, highlighting the quality of their performance against a strong opponent. Despite a strong lead, he acknowledged the nervous moments that followed Chelsea’s late goal. “It’s not perfect, but we should recognize the team’s efforts,” he said.
On Gyokeres:
He expressed satisfaction with Viktor Gyokeres’ contributions. Arteta noted, “Gyokeres had an excellent game. His effort sometimes goes unnoticed, but we appreciate it, especially with the goal he scored.”
On the Next Steps:
Arteta emphasized the importance of the upcoming match at the Emirates, stating, “It’s just half-time in this tie. We know we’ll face a tough challenge ahead.”
On Ben White:
He shared his admiration for Ben White, emphasizing his reliability and commitment. “He gives everything for the team and always steps up in crucial moments,” Arteta remarked.
On Zubimendi’s Goal:
Regarding Martin Zubimendi, Arteta described his versatility on the field. “Zubimendi has an incredible ability to read the game and stay calm under pressure,” he noted. This skill set is vital as the team looks to build on his strengths.
On Future Challenges:
Arteta was already looking ahead to the next game against Nottingham Forest. He mentioned the need for quick recovery and focus, adding, “What we did today is great, but now we need to prepare for what’s next.”
Arteta’s insights reflect not just a moment of triumph but also a forward-thinking approach. This match showcased the squad’s potential, and it set the tone for future challenges. Recent statistics show how tight competition is this season, with many matches decided by the smallest margins. As Arsenal prepares for their next steps, they remain focused on consistency and growth.
For more details on player performances and match updates, you can visit Arsenal’s official website.
