Mikel Arteta has urged his Arsenal squad to regroup and refocus during their upcoming warm-weather training camp in Dubai, following their disappointing Carabao Cup semifinal loss to Newcastle United. The Gunners must now shift their attention toward ending the season on a high note with silverware still up for grabs.
Arsenal fell to a 2-0 defeat at St. James’ Park on Wednesday, with goals from Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon sealing Newcastle’s place in the final. The Magpies secured a dominant 4-0 aggregate victory and will now prepare for a Wembley showdown against either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur on March 16.
While Newcastle aims to end a 56-year wait for a major trophy, Arsenal now has a 10-day break before their next fixture. The team will depart for Dubai on Thursday, hoping to recover after a grueling run of 12 matches in just 41 days.
“This one hurts, no doubt about it,” Arteta admitted. “We had high expectations and knew the challenge ahead after the first-leg result. Unfortunately, there’s nothing more we can do now. What mattered was our performance on the pitch just moments ago. Now, we need to move forward, recharge in Dubai, and push for the trophies still within our reach.”
Injury Concern for Martinelli
Arteta also provided an update on Gabriel Martinelli, who was forced off in the first half with a suspected hamstring injury. The Brazilian winger was substituted after 37 minutes, raising concerns about his availability for upcoming fixtures.
“He felt discomfort, likely in his hamstring, and wasn’t in a condition to continue,” Arteta explained. “We’ll conduct an MRI scan on Thursday to determine the extent of the injury.”
Isak Shines as Newcastle Eyes Glory
Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimarães heaped praise on Alexander Isak, labeling the Swedish forward as “the best striker around” following his standout performances in the semifinal tie. Isak netted both goals in Newcastle’s 2-0 first-leg victory and was a key figure once again in Wednesday’s second leg.
Early in the match, Isak had a goal ruled out for offside but later played a crucial role in Murphy’s opener. The striker skillfully maneuvered past Arsenal defender William Saliba, combining well with Gordon before unleashing a powerful shot that struck the post and fell perfectly for Murphy to convert.
“For me, he’s the best forward out there right now,” Guimarães said. “No one is performing at his level. We’re fortunate to have him, and I hope he keeps delivering.”
Newcastle’s Wembley Dream
Newcastle’s dominant aggregate win sends them to the Carabao Cup final for the second time in three seasons. The Magpies are eager to end their long-standing trophy drought, which dates back to 1969.
“Lifting a trophy would be an incredible moment, something to etch my name in the club’s history,” Guimarães said, reflecting on the opportunity to go a step further than last year’s final defeat to Manchester United. “It would be even more special in my first season as captain.”
Head coach Eddie Howe also emphasized Newcastle’s growing belief and consistency on the big stage.
“Reaching Wembley last time was amazing, maybe even unexpected,” Howe admitted. “But we need to make this a regular occurrence. This time, we’re here on merit. Our path hasn’t been easy; we’ve beaten four Premier League sides, so we’ve earned our place.”
Newcastle now awaits the winner of the Liverpool vs. Tottenham clash, with Spurs holding a 1-0 advantage ahead of Thursday’s decisive second leg at Anfield.
