Mikel Arteta used his pre-match press conference to outline Arsenal’s preparation for the Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup semi final, offering detailed updates on injuries, squad availability and his expectations ahead of the first-leg clash at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking at the Sobha Realty Training Centre, the Arsenal manager addressed the condition of several key players, reflected on past experiences in the competition, and assessed Chelsea under their new head coach, Liam Rosenior.
Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup Semi Final: Latest Injury Updates
Arteta confirmed that two players, Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori, will not be available for the Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup semi final first leg.
He explained that neither defender is ready to return yet, with Calafiori progressing but still some distance away from a comeback.
The Italian’s issue is a muscle injury, and while his recovery is moving in the right direction, Arteta indicated it could still take a few weeks before he is fully available.
Hincapie’s situation remains unclear. Arteta stated that the club are still waiting on the results of his scan and cannot yet provide a timeline for his return.
Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup Semi Final: Doubts Over Key Players
Arsenal are also monitoring the fitness of William Saliba and Leandro Trossard ahead of the Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup semi final. Both players are currently doubts, with no final decision made on their availability.
Arteta did not confirm whether either will be fit in time, making their inclusion uncertain as the first leg approaches.
In addition, young players Max Dowman and Cristhian Mosquera remain sidelined. Arteta revealed that the pair have very similar injuries and recovery timeframes.
Although both are progressing well, neither is back in training, and they remain a few weeks away from a return to action.
Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup Semi Final: Kai Havertz’s Return
Arteta spoke positively about Kai Havertz’s recent return to the squad. The manager acknowledged how much Arsenal missed the midfielder during his long absence, noting that a year out of football can be challenging.
However, Havertz has returned in strong physical condition and with visible confidence.
Arteta highlighted Havertz’s intelligence and ability to link play naturally with teammates, adding that his presence around the penalty area lifted those on the bench.
While Havertz is not yet ready to play full matches, Arteta confirmed he is building his minutes carefully after a 20–25 minute appearance in the previous game. The focus now is on managing his workload to ensure he remains available across competitions.
Facing Chelsea and Liam Rosenior
The Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup semi final also carries a personal subplot, with Arteta set to face Liam Rosenior, whom he previously played against in the 2014 FA Cup final.
Arteta described the moment as a reminder of football’s unpredictable journeys, with both men now managers preparing for a semi-final at Stamford Bridge.
Arteta admitted he does not know Rosenior personally but has spoken to people who have worked closely with him. Feedback from those contacts has been consistently positive, particularly regarding Rosenior’s development as a coach.
While Arteta wished him well for the future, he made clear that sentiment would not apply on matchday.
Learning From Last Season’s Semi Final
Reflecting on last season’s Carabao Cup semi final exit, Arteta said football offers opportunities for redemption. Arsenal have again shown consistency in the competition, but another strong opponent stands in their way.
Arteta described last year’s elimination as painful, especially given the number of chances his side missed.
For the Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup semi final, the aim is clear: improve efficiency and take advantage of moments that could decide the tie.
Arteta stressed that reaching the final requires knocking out top teams, and that challenge begins at Stamford Bridge.
Why the Carabao Cup Matters
Arteta explained that progressing deep into competitions like the Carabao Cup can have a wider impact on the squad. He believes these matches create a different type of energy and motivation, reminding players how close they are to silverware.
With Arsenal just two matches away from a final, the manager emphasised the importance of focusing on each game, starting with the first leg against Chelsea.
Team Selection and Squad Management
Discussing selection for the Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup semi final, Arteta reiterated that he does not believe in choosing players based solely on competitions.
Instead, his focus is on selecting those in the best condition and form, while managing the squad across a demanding schedule that will continue until May.
Arteta also addressed squad depth and minute management, explaining that sharing game time while remaining competitive is essential during a period where fixtures arrive every three days.
Individual Performances and Wider Context
Arteta praised Noni Madueke’s display against Portsmouth, noting his positive influence and attacking threat, while acknowledging areas that still require greater consistency.
He also spoke about Bukayo Saka’s continued impact, describing his performances this season as consistently strong and highlighting the challenge of maintaining effectiveness against well-prepared opponents.
On Per Mertesacker’s decision to leave at the end of the season, Arteta paid tribute to his long service and contribution to the club’s values, wishing him success in the next chapter of his career.
Final Thoughts Ahead of Stamford Bridge
As Arsenal prepare for the Arteta Chelsea Carabao Cup semi final, Arteta made it clear that success depends on outperforming the opposition on the night.
Preparation is complete, motivation is high, and the objective is simple: take another step towards the final by delivering the required performance at Stamford Bridge.
