Mikel Arteta addressed the media following our exhilarating 3-2 victory over Chelsea in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.
In his remarks, the manager evaluated our performance at Stamford Bridge, where Ben White, Viktor Gyokeres, and Martin Zubimendi all scored, discussed the current state of the tie, and much more. Let’s dive into his insights below:
On tonight's performance:
First and foremost, I want to commend the players for their display in the match against a challenging opponent. With such talent on the field, we felt that after going up 3-1 and enjoying a dominant spell, we had two significant opportunities to secure a fourth goal. Had we converted, the outcome could have been quite different. However, they managed to create a corner and score, making it a competitive game again. While the feeling isn’t entirely perfect, we should also appreciate what the team achieved tonight.
On Viktor Gyokeres’ determination:
Absolutely, his effort in many aspects of the game reflects this. Overall, he performed exceptionally well; his contributions to the team are sometimes understated, but we definitely recognize them. Plus, he was rewarded with a goal, which is fantastic.
On whether this marks a significant progression:
It’s certainly another step forward, but we are only halfway through. We’re well aware of the tough challenge that awaits us at the Emirates in a few weeks since they are a formidable side.
On Ben White:
I’ve often expressed my admiration for Ben, not just for his recent performances, but for everything he has done for us over the years. He has consistently demonstrated that he will give his all for the team; he is reliable under any circumstances. Tonight, he fulfilled his responsibilities perfectly.
On the influence of our throw-in coach on one of our goals:
I’m not really familiar with that aspect.
On Martin Zubimendi’s goal:
When we discuss Zubi, the question is what else can he do? His capabilities are extensive, reminiscent of Declan's attributes. We must continue to unlock his potential because he excels at occupying various positions, carrying the ball, dribbling, winning challenges, and when he reaches the final third, he demonstrates remarkable composure. He has a clear understanding of the game. What he accomplished today, not just with the goal but also with his overall performance, was outstanding.
On how the gap before the next semi-final leg might be influenced by our other matches:
I can’t say for certain. In about 20 minutes, I will shift my focus to preparing for Nottingham Forest and ensuring everyone recovers properly. That’s part of our routine. I’m pleased with our achievements tonight, but now it's time to concentrate on the upcoming match.
On the impact of this victory on our momentum:
This win is incredibly beneficial because it’s a challenging venue to visit. They are a top-tier team, and witnessing their quality live reveals just how quickly they can exploit defenses. That’s why I truly value what our team accomplished again tonight.
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