Jamie Redknapp Blames Mikel Arteta for ‘Monumental Error’ as Arsenal Lose Carabao Cup Final

Arsenal’s long wait for a major trophy continues after a painful 2-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley. While the scoreline tells one story, much of the discussion after the match has focused on a big decision made before kick-off — and one that pundit Jamie Redknapp believes cost the Gunners dearly.

At the heart of the debate is Kepa Arrizabalaga, who was given the nod ahead of Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper David Raya. It was a call made by Mikel Arteta that raised eyebrows before the match — and drew heavy criticism after the final whistle.

A costly mistake on the biggest stage

For much of the game, Arsenal held their shape well and looked capable of taking the contest deep. The first half was tight, with few clear chances. However, the match turned on a single moment just after the hour mark and it proved decisive.

Kepa, who had started every game in the competition leading up to the final, made a costly error that allowed Nico O’Reilly to open the scoring. The mistake shifted momentum instantly, giving Manchester City belief and control.

Just four minutes later, O’Reilly struck again, heading home to double City’s lead and effectively end the contest. In a final where fine margins often decide the outcome, Arsenal’s gamble in goal had backfired in the worst possible way.

Redknapp does not hold back

Speaking after the match via Skysport, Redknapp was clear and direct in his assessment. He questioned the logic behind leaving out Raya in such an important game, especially given the club’s long trophy drought.

“I know people will say sentiment because he’s played in the earlier rounds, but Kepa is not as good as Raya — that’s why he’s your No.2,” Redknapp said.

His criticism did not stop there. He went on to label the decision as a major misjudgment from Arteta, adding: “So why in a major final, when you’re trying to get across the line, you’ve not won a trophy in so long, do you decide to play him? You have to take responsibility for that; that is a monumental error.”

It was a strong statement, but one that reflects the frustration many Arsenal fans are feeling. After years of rebuilding under Arteta, matches like this are seen as key opportunities to prove progress — and missing out only adds to the pressure.

A debate about loyalty vs. performance

Arteta’s decision was likely influenced by loyalty. Kepa had played throughout the Carabao Cup run, helping Arsenal reach the final. In cup competitions, managers often stick with the goalkeeper who got them there.

However, finals are different. They are about winning above all else. Redknapp’s argument is simple: when the stakes are this high, you pick your best available players — regardless of previous rounds.

Former City defender Micah Richards agreed with that view, pointing out the clear difference in quality between the two goalkeepers. He suggested that in big games, those small differences can decide everything — and in this case, they did.

The bigger picture for Arsenal

This defeat extends Arsenal’s wait for a major trophy to over five years, with their last success coming in the FA Cup in 2020. While the team has improved in many areas under Arteta, questions remain about whether they can deliver when it matters most.

Statistically, Arsenal have been strong this season, especially in the Premier League, where they continue to push at the top. But finals are judged differently. One mistake, one decision, one moment — that is often all it takes.

For Arteta, the challenge now is to ensure this setback does not derail the rest of the campaign. The Gunners are still in a strong position domestically, and there is plenty left to fight for.

Manchester City’s ruthless edge

While much of the focus is on Arsenal, credit must go to Manchester City. Once they took the lead, they showed their usual calm and control. Their ability to punish mistakes remains one of their greatest strengths.

Pep Guardiola’s side have now added another trophy to their collection, reinforcing their reputation as one of the most consistent and dominant teams in modern football.