Chelsea Crash Out of Carabao Cup as Arsenal Advance

Chelsea Carabao Cup hopes were dashed after a limp 1-0 defeat against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, sealing a 4-2 aggregate exit in the semi-finals. Liam Rosenior’s side failed to find attacking inspiration, leaving fans and pundits questioning their approach as Arsenal booked their spot at Wembley.

Chelsea Carabao Cup Exit: A Night of Missed Opportunities

Chelsea entered the second leg needing to overturn a narrow deficit after a spirited but ultimately unsuccessful first-leg performance. Despite Alejandro Garnacho’s brace in that earlier encounter rekindling hope, Rosenior’s team struggled to impose themselves in the return fixture. With Arsenal holding firm, Chelsea managed just two straightforward efforts on goal, both easily handled by Gunners goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time, as Kai Havertz slotted home to secure the 1-0 win for Arsenal and a 4-2 aggregate triumph. The Blues’ attacking woes were apparent, recording just 0.68 expected goals—highlighting their inability to create clear-cut chances in one of the biggest games of their season.

Paul Merson Blasts Chelsea’s Performance

Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson didn’t mince words as he analysed Chelsea’s Carabao Cup exit. Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson described himself as “numb” and “flabbergasted” by the lackluster display. He lamented the lack of fight shown by the Chelsea squad, which boasts international stars and even World Cup winners.

“This is Chelsea Football Club. They have got international football players, a World Cup winner. They have got players all over…this is not a bottom four or five team, they have just come here…they should be crying because they never had a go,” Merson said, expressing disbelief at the tactical conservatism on such a crucial night.

Images of a teary-eyed Wesley Fofana at full-time captured the mood among Chelsea’s players—devastated by the nature of their exit as much as the result itself.

Chelsea’s Early Promise Fades Under Rosenior

Liam Rosenior’s tenure at Chelsea began brightly, with six wins in his first eight matches following his appointment. However, this Carabao Cup disappointment marks his second defeat—both at the hands of Arsenal. Despite the setback, Chelsea’s fixture list offers a path to redemption, with upcoming clashes against Wolves, Leeds United, and Hull City in the FA Cup, providing an opportunity to regain momentum.

For more news on Chelsea’s upcoming fixtures and future prospects, visit for more news.

Arsenal March On to Wembley

While Chelsea rue their missed chance, Arsenal are eyeing the silverware. Mikel Arteta’s side showcased resilience and tactical clarity, with Arteta praising the team’s ability to “understand what kind of game we had to play.” The Emirates was electric as Arsenal secured their place in the Carabao Cup final, awaiting the outcome of the Manchester City vs Newcastle United semi-final.

Arteta highlighted the special atmosphere at the Emirates, noting the significance of reaching another final and the hunger in his squad for more silverware. With the Carabao Cup final set for March 22, Arsenal will be keen to convert their good form into a trophy.

What’s Next for Chelsea?

Chelsea must now regroup after this Carabao Cup disappointment. Their Premier League campaign remains vital, and Rosenior will need to refocus his squad ahead of a pivotal run of games. With another clash against Arsenal looming in early March, there’s a chance for Chelsea to turn the tables and restore pride.

Opinion: Chelsea Must Rediscover Their Identity

Chelsea’s Carabao Cup exit underlines the need for greater attacking ambition and belief. While Rosenior’s initial results were promising, the manner of this defeat suggests a team still searching for its true character. With world-class players in the squad, Chelsea owe their supporters performances full of passion and intent—instead of cautious displays that lack a cutting edge. The next few weeks will be telling for Rosenior and his project at Stamford Bridge.