Mikel Arteta issues passionate Arsenal statement on Kepa and makes 'bad taste' admission

Kepa Arrizabalaga disappointed in the Carabao Cup final (Image: Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)

Mikel Arteta has defended his decision to start Kepa Arrizabalaga in the Carabao Cup final. The 31-year-old goalkeeper was picked ahead of David Raya, having started for Arsenal in each of the previous rounds of the competition.

Kepa failed to repay his manager's faith, making a couple of costly errors. During the second half, the Spain international spilled a cross in the six-yard box; it fell to Nico O'Reilly, who fired Manchester City into the lead.

The 21-year-old defender doubled his side's advantage a few moments later, scoring another header from close range. Speaking to reporters after the game, the Gunners boss explained why Kepa was given the nod .

"I understand but I have to do what I think is right which is honest and fair," said Arteta. "Kepa is an outstanding keeper, and it would've been very unfair on him to do something different."

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The Spaniard added: "I'm very sad. It's a hard one to take. We know how much it means and how much we wanted it. The fact we haven't managed to deliver that is disappointing and leaves a bad taste."

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