The EFL have released a statement responding to Mikel Arteta, following on from the Arsenal manager’s complaints over the Carabao Cup ball in the semi-final first-leg defeat to Newcastle.
The Gunners huffed and puffed at the Emirates Stadium to take down the Magpies, who were in a rampant mood.
Eddie Howe’s men were resilient at the back but put up a fight going forward, showing their clinical nature in front of goal.
A double blow from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon means Arsenal have it all to do in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg come February.
The Gunners were unable to take their chances, though following the match, Mikel Arteta’s comments raised some eyebrows.
Arteta complained about the Carabao Cup match balls, complaining that they felt different to those played with elsewhere.
It’s a comment that has been hit back at by the EFL.
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EFL statement on Arsenal Carabao Cup ball complaint
Following Mikel Arteta’s complaints about the Carabao Cup ball, the EFL have responded with a statement of their own.
A spokesperson told The Sun: “As is required throughout the professional game, the Puma ball used in this season’s Carabao Cup and in EFL competition since 2021/22 is tested in accordance with the Fifa Quality Programme for Footballs, and meets the FIFA Quality Pro standard.
“In addition to the Carabao Cup, the same ball has been successfully used in other major European leagues, including both Serie A and LaLiga and our three divisions in the EFL.
“All Clubs play with the same ball, and we have received no further comments of this nature following any of the previous 88 fixtures which have taken place in this season’s Carabao Cup.”
It’s a move to hit back at the claim from Arteta, which has seemingly caught the attention of those at the EFL.
Arsenal will firmly have to put the incident behind them when they look to turn things around against Newcastle in the second leg.
Arsenal must move on from Carabao Cup complaint
Arsenal have an absolute mountain to climb in the Carabao Cup second leg against Newcastle, especially away at St. James’ Park.
The Gunners have found the Magpies to be something of a bogey team as of late, having already lost to them in the Premier League this season.
While it’s not incorrect to suggest that a change of ball, albeit still within the permitted guidelines, could impact things, all teams have had to play with the same one.
Arsenal will simply have to work their way back into the tie with some early pressure and a goal or two in their favour.
It isn’t impossible, but they can’t do it with a negative mindset, that’s for sure.
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