Arteta Faces Injury Setbacks but Remains Focused on Carabao Cup Glory

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has vowed to keep his focus on winning the Carabao Cup despite mounting injury woes. The latest setback comes with Ethan Nwaneri, who suffered an injury during the Gunners’ 1-1 draw against Brighton. The 17-year-old, who opened the scoring in the match, had to be substituted at halftime and is expected to miss several weeks.

With Bukayo Saka already sidelined and doubts over Kai Havertz’s availability due to illness, Arteta's attacking options are limited for Tuesday’s semi-final first leg against Newcastle. However, the Arsenal boss is confident his squad can rise to the challenge as they aim for their second major trophy under his leadership.

Silverware in Sight

Arteta emphasized the significance of winning trophies, calling it “the icing on the cake” for the team’s hard work. “We work every single day to bring joy to our people,” he said. “There’s nothing more special than lifting a trophy and sharing that moment with our supporters and colleagues. These are memories that stay with you forever, and we hope to create many more.”

The manager also addressed the challenges of competing in multiple tournaments. “Winning any trophy in this environment, especially in England, is incredibly difficult,” Arteta said. “From the beginning, we’ve been clear that every competition matters. Now we’re in the semi-finals, and we want to make it count.”

Team Updates

Gabriel Martinelli is expected to return to the starting lineup for the Newcastle clash, while Martin Ødegaard has been battling illness but remains a key figure in the squad. Arteta dismissed criticism that Arsenal were too defensive after taking the lead against Brighton, which ended in a draw following João Pedro’s controversial penalty.

Despite the setbacks, Arteta’s determination to secure the Carabao Cup remains unwavering. The team will need to adapt and rely on its depth as they navigate this critical stage of the competition.

• Injury Updates: Ethan Nwaneri is out for several weeks, joining Bukayo Saka on the sidelines, with Kai Havertz’s status uncertain due to illness.
• Trophy Focus: Arteta reiterated Arsenal's commitment to winning the Carabao Cup, calling it a priority from the start of the season.
• Squad News: Gabriel Martinelli is set to return, while Martin Ødegaard is recovering from illness.
• Semi-Final Showdown: Arsenal face Newcastle in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals with limited attacking options but a firm focus on victory.