Overview
- Arsenal reached the Carabao Cup final, but Viktor Gyokeres struggled in the second leg against Chelsea with one shot, 10 touches and one completed pass before being replaced after 69 minutes.
- Kai Havertz came on for Gyokeres and scored, intensifying the decision over who starts at No. 9 in the final.
- Gyokeres has 11 goals in 30 appearances this season and entered the tie on a run of six goal contributions in six games, including a goal and an assist in the first leg at Stamford Bridge.
- Mikel Arteta says the striker’s consistency, movement and defensive work have improved, describing his recent finishing as more prolific.
- Pundit reaction split as Gary Neville criticized the display, Wayne Rooney highlighted his value in occupying defenders, and Rio Ferdinand urged teammates to play earlier into his runs; Arsenal have won 20 of his 24 starts and average slightly higher non‑penalty xG when he begins.