Daijiworld Media Network - London
London, Feb 4: Former Arsenal star Paul Merson launched a scathing attack on Chelsea’s players after the Blues crashed out of the Carabao Cup at the semi-final stage, losing 1-0 to Arsenal on Tuesday night and going down 4-2 on aggregate.
Chelsea, managed by Liam Rosenior, struggled to create meaningful chances at the Emirates Stadium and failed to find the goals required to book a place at Wembley. Kai Havertz struck late in stoppage time to seal the tie for the Gunners and send them through to the final.
Chelsea had gone into the second leg trailing after the first meeting, but were still hopeful of a comeback. However, despite remaining solid for large spells of the return fixture, Rosenior’s side lacked cutting edge in the final third, with Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga called into action only twice.
The visitors managed just 0.68 expected goals, leaving many Chelsea fans frustrated by the timid display. Merson was equally unimpressed, saying he was “numb” and “flabbergasted” by what he witnessed.
“This is Chelsea Football Club. They have got international football players, a World Cup winner… and they never had a go,” Merson said on Sky Sports, adding that the Blues “went out with an absolute whimper” in a major semi-final.
He also questioned Chelsea’s approach, stating they should have pushed forward and taken risks rather than accepting defeat quietly.
While Rosenior has enjoyed a strong start since taking charge at Stamford Bridge, the defeat marked his second loss as Chelsea manager — both coming against Arsenal.
Chelsea will now turn their attention to domestic fixtures, starting with an away clash against Wolves this weekend, before matches against Leeds United and Hull City. They are also set to face Arsenal again in the Premier League in early March.
Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised his team’s resilience and the atmosphere at the Emirates as they moved one step closer to silverware. The Gunners will now await the winner of the other semi-final between Manchester City and Newcastle United, with the Carabao Cup final scheduled for March 22.