Arsenal Names Kepa in Goal for Carabao Cup Final vs Man City at Wembley

Kepa Arrizabalaga will start in goal for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley, instead of David Raya.
By Newsroom | Football, UK |

Confirmed Lineups Emerge for Carabao Cup Final

Arsenal has finalized its starting XI for the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley, with Kepa Arrizabalaga taking the goalkeeper position. This decision sees the Spanish keeper, who has featured throughout the cup run, preferred over David Raya. The team will be spearheaded by striker Viktor Gyokeres, supported by Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard in wide attacking roles.

Carabao Cup final lineups as Arsenal decisions made on Gyokeres and Timber vs Man City - 1

The defensive setup sees Ben White at right-back, with Jurrien Timber not fit enough to feature. Piero Hincapie is named at left-back. In midfield, Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice form the central pairing, with Kai Havertz deployed in a more advanced role.

Carabao Cup final lineups as Arsenal decisions made on Gyokeres and Timber vs Man City - 2

Manchester City's lineup includes James Trafford in goal, a consistent choice for them in this competition. The back line comprises Matheus Nunes, Abdukodir Khusanov, Nathan Ake, and Nico O’Reilly. The midfield is anchored by Rodri and Bernardo Silva, with Cherki, Doku, Semenyo, and Erling Haaland forming the attacking unit. Notably, Ruben Dias is unavailable due to a reported hamstring injury.

Read More: Man City's Guehi Barred from Carabao Cup Final Due to EFL Rule

Carabao Cup final lineups as Arsenal decisions made on Gyokeres and Timber vs Man City - 3

Squad Selections and Absences

Arsenal's strategy also involves key players like Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke positioned as impact substitutes, ready to influence the game from the bench. The club is aiming for its first piece of silverware this season in what is shaping up to be a significant contest against their Premier League rivals.

The final squad announcements come after considerable speculation regarding fitness and tactical choices. For Arsenal, the absence of Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard due to fitness concerns has prompted adjustments in the starting lineup. Eberechi Eze has not been included in Arsenal's squad for the final.

Context of the Competition

The Carabao Cup final represents the first opportunity for silverware this season for both Arsenal and Manchester City. The match is scheduled to kick off at 16:30 GMT. The availability of Dias for Manchester City is a significant development, impacting their defensive configuration against an Arsenal side seeking to secure an early season triumph.

Read More: Manchester City's Marc Guehi barred from Carabao Cup final due to transfer rule on March 22

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is starting as goalkeeper for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley?
Kepa Arrizabalaga has been confirmed as the starting goalkeeper for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley. He will play instead of David Raya.
Q: Who is leading the attack for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final?
Viktor Gyokeres will lead the attack for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final. Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard will play in wide attacking positions.
Q: Which players are missing from Arsenal's squad for the Carabao Cup final?
Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard are not fit enough to play for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final. Eberechi Eze has also not been included in the squad.
Q: Who is missing from Manchester City's squad for the Carabao Cup final?
Ruben Dias is unavailable for Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final due to a hamstring injury. This affects their defensive lineup.
Q: When and where is the Carabao Cup final between Arsenal and Manchester City?
The Carabao Cup final between Arsenal and Manchester City is scheduled to kick off at 16:30 GMT at Wembley Stadium. This is the first chance for silverware for both teams this season.