Darren Bent Calls for Kepa Axe as Arsenal Pursue Double Glory
Former Premier League striker Darren Bent has issued a stark warning to Mikel Arteta, urging the Arsenal manager to drop goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga for the remainder of the season. Bent insists that David Raya must start every game as the Gunners chase both the Premier League and Champions League titles.
Arsenal's High-Stakes Campaign
Arsenal's ambitions for silverware remain alive despite a disappointing 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Southampton last weekend. The team currently holds a nine-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the Premier League and secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Sporting CP in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday night. Attention now shifts to a crucial Premier League clash against Bournemouth this Saturday.
Bent, speaking on talkSPORT, emphasized the need for consistency in Arteta's selections during this critical phase. He expressed concerns over several players' performances in the Southampton loss, notably describing Gabriel Jesus as a 'passenger' and highlighting defensive jitters in the absence of William Saliba.
Bent's Blunt Assessment
'Stop playing Kepa,' Bent declared. 'I know it's not necessarily his fault, but I don't want to see Kepa again this season. As a back-up, perfect. David Raya, between now and the end of the season, has to play every single minute.'
He argued that even if Arsenal secure a comfortable lead in the Champions League tie, Raya should remain in goal to maintain rhythm and reliability. Bent criticized the repeated opportunities given to underperforming squad players, stating they are 'letting him down' and failing to seize their chances.
Key Fixtures Ahead
Arsenal face a demanding April schedule that could define their season:
- Bournemouth (H) | Premier League | April 11
- Sporting CP (H) | Champions League | April 15
- Man City (A) | Premier League | April 19
- Newcastle (H) | Premier League | April 25
- Potential Champions League semi-final first leg | April 28 or 29
With the title race and European aspirations on the line, Bent's comments add to the growing debate over team selection and squad depth at the Emirates Stadium.
