Mikel Arteta’s rallying call ahead of Carabao Cup final
Mikel Arteta has issued a passionate plea to Arsenal supporters ahead of Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley, calling on them to “attack the final” in unison with his squad, reports BritPanorama.
The Gunners currently sit at the top of the Premier League and are vying for an extraordinary four trophies this season, but it has been nearly six years since they last claimed major silverware.
“Be with us, push for every ball, for every action,” Arteta urged fans. “Show how much we really want it and together attack the final.”
Arsenal’s last major victory was the 2020 FA Cup, a match played behind closed doors due to Covid-19 restrictions. This time, Arteta will have the vocal support of fans at Wembley, although he faces fitness concerns as he finalises his squad.
Captain Martin Ødegaard remains a doubt after missing every match since sustaining a knee injury during February’s north London derby against Tottenham. Defender Jurrien Timber is also uncertain after leaving the pitch in the first half of last weekend’s fixture against Everton.
“We have another session tomorrow, so let’s see if they can make it,” Arteta said when pressed on the availability of both players.
The Arsenal manager is also keeping his goalkeeping selection under wraps. While David Raya has been the established first-choice, Kepa Arrizabalaga has featured prominently in domestic cup competitions this season.
Arteta’s counterpart, Pep Guardiola, has confirmed that James Trafford will start in goal for Manchester City, showcasing the differing approaches of the two managers in handling pre-match media duties.
Their relationship dates back to Arteta’s time as an assistant coach under Guardiola at Manchester City. Reflecting on their bond ahead of the final, Arteta stated, “The feelings from my side haven’t changed at all. He’s in Manchester, I’m in London. We are managing two different clubs.”
This encounter promises to be not just a clash of two titles but a significant moment for a club eager to return to the pinnacle of English football. As Arsenal hope for glory under Arteta, all eyes will be on Wembley, where ambition meets opportunity.
