Arteta Faces Backlash After Kepa Blunder Costs Arsenal in EFL Cup Final

Mikel Arteta has come under intense criticism after starting Kepa Arrizabalaga instead of David Raya in the EFL Cup final against Manchester City. The decision drew anger when Kepa fumbled a routine catch in the 60th minute, allowing City’s young midfielder to tap in the opener. Just four minutes later, the same player doubled the lead, sealing a 2-0 win for Pep Guardiola’s side. Fans immediately blamed Arteta’s lineup choice for denying Arsenal their first major trophy of the season. Supporters flooded social media, arguing that a high-stakes final required the proven reliability of Raya. Many compared Arteta’s decision to the approaches of other top managers, insisting the wrong goalkeeper cost the Gunners dearly.

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