There is a big dilemma for Mikel Arteta ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester City.
Most of the Gunners’ team picks itself on Sunday, but there is a debate going around on who should start in goal – first-choice starter David Raya or cup keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Paul Merson, who was in the squad when Arsenal last won the League Cup, has backed the latter.
How do you feel about Peter Bankes being appointed as the referee for Arsenal vs Manchester City Carabao Cup final?
Paul Merson explains why Kepa Arrizabalaga should start over David Raya for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final
Arsenal will be desperate to beat Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday.
That’s not just because it’s a trophy and one they haven’t won in over three decades, but also because a win at Wembley could give them the momentum they need to go all the way in the Premier League.
For the above reason, many fans have urged Mikel Arteta to drop Kepa and start Raya, as he is the better goalkeeper.
However, Merson doesn’t think that is the right thing to do and believes the former Chelsea man should keep his place in the side.
He wrote on Sportskeeda: “The big decision that Arsenal need to make is whether they go with Kepa Arrizabalaga or David Raya in goal.
“Kepa has been first-choice in the Carabao Cup, and I think they should stick with him. It’s only fair because he played well and got you to this stage.
“But I must admit, Raya is world-class! The saves he made against Everton and Leverkusen were absolutely phenomenal.
“However, if I were the manager, I would still stick to my principles and choose Kepa as the keeper for the final. He’s not let the team down in this competition and deserves to start.”
Who should start in goal for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final?
Stick with Kepa or be ruthless and start Raya?
Pep Guardiola has already decided his goalkeeper for Arsenal vs Manchester City
Pep Guardiola has a similar situation in goal ahead of the Carabao Cup final.
Gianluigi Donnarumma is Manchester City’s number one, but James Trafford has started every single game in the competition so far.
However, nobody is debating this one because Guardiola has confirmed that Trafford will start ahead of Donnarumma in the final against Arsenal on Sunday.
“I said from the beginning he is a top keeper. He has an incredible future ahead of him. He is going to play in the first Carabao Cup final for him,” the City boss said after the semi-finals.
It remains to be seen if Arteta will follow his mentor and go with Kepa in Arsenal’s goal.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
