Arsenal's Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has publicly expressed his readiness to contribute to ending the club's six-year trophy drought, as manager Mikel Arteta deliberates over a critical selection decision ahead of Sunday's Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley Stadium.
Kepa's Confidence Amidst Goalkeeping Dilemma
The 31-year-old shot-stopper, who joined Arsenal from Chelsea last summer, has served as a capable deputy to first-choice goalkeeper and compatriot David Raya throughout the season. All nine of Kepa's appearances for the Gunners have occurred in domestic cup competitions, and strong indications suggest he will retain his starting position for the high-stakes final.
Kepa acknowledged the special atmosphere surrounding Wembley finals, stating: 'The atmosphere at Wembley is so special, everything around the game is special – the build-up and everything. You know you are out there playing for a title, and right now in this moment of football, every title is so difficult to get.'
Past Final Experiences
The Spanish international brings both positive and challenging memories from previous Carabao Cup finals. Seven years ago, while playing for Chelsea, Kepa famously refused to be substituted ahead of a penalty shootout against Manchester City, with manager Maurizio Sarri attempting to replace him with Willy Caballero. City ultimately triumphed in that shootout.
In 2022, Kepa experienced further disappointment when his missed penalty in a shootout against Liverpool handed victory to Jurgen Klopp's side after eleven successful spot kicks. Despite these setbacks, Kepa maintains a professional perspective: 'I have played in the League Cup final before, but I have played many finals in my career, I have been lucky in that way.'
Arteta's Selection Headache
Arteta faces a genuine selection dilemma, balancing Kepa's consistent cup performances against Raya's outstanding form throughout the season. The significance of the final against Premier League rivals Manchester City adds considerable pressure to this decision.
Kepa emphasized his preparation approach: 'So I will just approach the game the best way that I can. We will prepare everything in the best way, because at the end the aim is to win. Just focus on the game, focus on us and prepare for the opponent. That's it. I don't think we need to approach anything differently.'
Manchester City Challenge
The goalkeeper acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Manchester City, who will be seeking redemption after their recent Champions League exit. 'Manchester City have great players in every position, they are one of the strongest teams without a doubt. They have a lot of different options and depth of quality.'
Kepa highlighted Arsenal's collective experience: 'We have big players who have played in big games, in finals, in the Euros, in the World Cup, in the Champions League. We know what it is to play in big games every three days.'
Trophy Ambition
The Spanish goalkeeper framed the final as a potential turning point for Arsenal's recent trophy drought: 'For us though, hopefully this could be a way for us to open our trophy cabinet, and to keep it open.'
As Arsenal prepares for their first major final in several seasons, Kepa's message to Arteta combines confidence, experience, and determination to seize this opportunity for silverware against one of European football's strongest sides.
