Arsenal Player Ratings: Gunners Edge Chelsea to Reach Wembley

Arsenal player ratings take center stage as the Gunners secured their place at Wembley, defeating Chelsea 1-0 in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg and advancing 4-2 on aggregate. Mikel Arteta’s side relied on tactical discipline and timely interventions, with Kai Havertz delivering the decisive blow against his former club.

Arsenal Player Ratings vs Chelsea: Defensive Resilience and Key Moments

Arsenal player ratings reflect a composed defensive display at the Emirates Stadium. Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga (6/10) faced little real danger, while Jurrien Timber (7/10) impressed at right-back, handling Chelsea’s rotating attackers with maturity. William Saliba (7/10) maintained his recent high standards, providing assured cover in central defense.

Gabriel Magalhaes, rated 6/10, was reliable but occasionally pressured by Chelsea’s high press. Piero Hincapie (6/10) faced a flurry of attacks down his flank but coped admirably, especially aerially against a physical Blues front line.

Midfield Battle: Arsenal’s Engine Room Holds Firm

Martin Zubimendi (6/10) kept Arsenal’s midfield ticking without taking unnecessary risks, a sensible approach given Chelsea’s pressing intensity. Declan Rice (7/10) was crucial in maintaining balance and emerged as the architect of the decisive late goal, breaking quickly to set up Havertz. Eberechi Eze (5/10), stepping in for the absent Martin Odegaard, struggled to make a lasting impact.

Attack: Lack of Spark, But Havertz Delivers

Noni Madueke (5/10) was unable to ignite Arsenal’s attack and was replaced by Leandro Trossard (6/10), who injected some energy but couldn’t find a breakthrough. Viktor Gyokeres (5/10) had limited service and was subbed off for Havertz, whose 7/10 display was capped by the vital goal that confirmed Arsenal’s passage to the Carabao Cup final. Gabriel Martinelli (5/10) got into promising positions but lacked clinical finishing on the night.

Kai Havertz’s Impact Seals Wembley Return

Havertz, facing his former club, came off the bench to score in stoppage time. With Chelsea pushing everyone forward, Rice led a swift counter before squaring for Havertz to finish into an empty net—an emotional moment as he pointed to the Arsenal badge. This moment encapsulated the Gunners’ calculated approach, prioritizing solidity and patience over swashbuckling play.

Manager and Tactics: Arteta’s Pragmatism Pays Off

Mikel Arteta (6/10) set up his side to defend their first-leg advantage, focusing on structure rather than risk. Although it wasn’t a spectacle for the neutrals, Arsenal’s game plan worked: soak up pressure, deny Chelsea space, and take advantage of late opportunities. While Arsenal’s attacking verve was muted, their discipline and game management were exemplary.

What’s Next for Arsenal After Carabao Cup Success?

Arsenal now look ahead to their first domestic cup final since 2020, where they will face either Manchester City or Newcastle United. While some may question their lack of attacking intent, reaching Wembley is a testament to the progress under Arteta, with a squad showing maturity in big moments.

For more analysis and the latest updates on Arsenal’s run to Wembley, visit for more news.

Opinion: Arsenal’s Approach—Pragmatic or Too Cautious?

There’s no denying Arsenal’s pragmatic performance against Chelsea got the job done. While it wasn’t a spectacle in terms of attacking football, it showcased the value of tactical discipline in cup competitions. The Gunners’ ability to manage the tie, especially with a lead to protect, reflects their evolution under Arteta. However, fans will be hoping for more attacking flair in the final. Ultimately, reaching Wembley is what matters, and Arsenal have earned their shot at silverware.