Table of Contents
- Mikel Arteta and Christmas No. 1
- Hectic Schedule for the Gunners
- Carabao Cup Dilemma
- Team Selection Challenges
- Importance of Winning the Cup
- Defensive Options
- Palace Players in Need of Rest
MIKEL ARTETA might have hoped for a few quiet days to celebrate Arsenal being Christmas No. 1.
However, given the busy nature of the Gunners' current schedule, there isn't time for that.
Mikel Arteta faces a Carabao Cup dilemmaCredit: Getty
Arsenal climbed to the top of the Premier League last weekend with a victory against Everton and are still competing in the cupCredit: Getty
Arteta’s squad will host a match tonight in the quarter-finals, just three days after they secured the top position in the Premier League.
The win was achieved thanks to Viktor Gyokeres' penalty in the 27th minute, following an inexplicable handball by Jake O’Brien while trying to defend a corner.
This victory was crucial after Manchester City had momentarily overtaken them earlier on Saturday by winning their match.
Arteta’s team responded appropriately, but it is evident that a genuine title race is developing as the new year approaches.
City appears to be back to their best, and the notion that they might run away with the title seems unlikely now.
However, Arteta will set aside thoughts of the Premier League tonight as he focuses on the Carabao Cup.
The match against the Eagles is a challenge for the leaders and has been scheduled a week later than the other quarter-finals due to Palace’s commitments in the Conference League.
The significant decision for Arteta lies in the selection of his team.
Brighton is slated to visit in the league on Saturday, and he will want his players to be fresh for that encounter.
The Gunners have been severely impacted by injuries.
Manager Arteta mentioned earlier this month that they are in a “dangerous cycle” at the moment.
Arsenal currently has only five fit defenders, and they would be left with very few options if they were to lose another.
This is why some fans would be pleased to see the Spaniard make significant changes tonight.
While this cup may not represent the major silverware they desire, it remains important.
The same sentiment applies to Arteta and everyone associated with Arsenal, who harbor much greater ambitions.
However, Arteta has never been a manager who fields a team full of youngsters simply because he is focused on the next match.
Consider the team he selected for the away match against Port Vale in September when they began their League Cup campaign.
Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and William Saliba all started, while Declan Rice and Gabriel were brought on as substitutes.
This not only highlights the North London club’s improved squad depth but also Arteta’s commitment to winning every match.
He discussed last week the importance of securing a new contract at the Emirates, with his current deal set to expire in just over 18 months.
Winning the Carabao Cup might not significantly contribute to him obtaining an extension – but it could be monumental for this group of players.
Ultimately, we all recognize that achieving the first significant trophy is something that is psychologically very, very important.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager
Arsenal has secured only one major trophy under Arteta, which was the FA Cup five years ago.
However, none of the current squad members participated in that victory over Chelsea, with Saka being an unused substitute.
Arteta might point out that they have won two Community Shields since then – but let’s be honest, that’s not equivalent.
This group of players lacks experience in crossing the finish line, which is why the Carabao Cup could hold significant value.
Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola have famously used it as a launching pad for achieving the biggest honors in May. Arteta may share similar sentiments and has recently discussed the mentality required to secure silverware.
He stated: “Ultimately, we all know that achieving the first significant trophy is something that is psychologically very, very important.
“Because when you possess the belief that you can do it – and you have done it – and you have experienced the journey and the crucial elements you need to master to actually achieve it, it’s extremely important.”
Finding the right balance with his lineup will be crucial, but he
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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