The great No 2 debate: Did Mikel Arteta's Kepa gamble betray Arsenal's trophy hopes? Is playing a back-up goalkeeper ever worth the risk? And should managers worry about loyalty or protecting players'
Mikel Arteta paid the price for his decision to start backup goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, as the Spaniard’s costly error proved decisive in Manchester City's 2-0 victory at Wembley. Ian Herbert, Nathan Salt, Chris Wheeler and James Sharpe share their views on Arteta's big Carabao Cup final decision. This is the same guy who refused to be substituted by his Chelsea No 2 Willy Caballero in the 2019 Carabao Cup final. Roberto Mancini dumped Costel Pantilimon for Joe Hart and lost the 2013 FA Cup final. Mikel Arteta paid the price for showing loyalty to Kepa rather than starting No 1 David RayaJames SharpeI have no issue with Mikel Arteta starting Kepa.
Source: Metro March 23, 2026 12:23 UTC
