Carabao Cup exit highlights areas for improvement as Arsenal target major trophies
Arsenal’s Carabao Cup journey is over, but in the grand scheme of their season, it is a mere footnote. Mikel Arteta’s side fell short against Newcastle United, failing to overturn a first-leg deficit and exiting with little resistance. But if Arsenal are serious about winning the trophies that truly matter, this defeat may be the best thing that could have happened.
With the League Cup out of the way, Arsenal’s focus must now be sharpened on the Premier League and Champions League. Those are the competitions that define a club of their stature, and those are the trophies that will measure the success of this season.
They currently sit six points behind Liverpool in the league, with Arne Slot’s side still holding a game in hand. It is not an ideal position, but it is also not insurmountable. Arsenal must now put together a run of form that keeps them in the race and puts pressure on the leaders. Any slip-ups from Liverpool must be punished immediately.
In Europe, Arsenal’s strong league-phase performance has given them a direct path to the last 16. Unlike some of their rivals, they will not have to navigate the additional playoff round, meaning they can rest and prepare for the biggest games ahead. The Champions League remains a realistic target, with many top clubs struggling for consistency this season.
The defeat to Newcastle exposed familiar weaknesses. A lack of cutting edge in key moments. A vulnerability when forced into high-pressure situations. A dependence on certain players for creativity. These issues must be addressed if Arsenal are to stand a chance in the competitions that matter.
This loss also removes a distraction. The Carabao Cup is not what Arsenal are building towards. Winning it would not have defined their season, and losing it does not ruin their chances of success.
What happens next will determine how this campaign is remembered. If Arsenal use this exit as fuel to sharpen their focus, it could be the turning point that leads them to the ultimate prize. Their real battle starts now.
