In the aftermath of Arsenal's 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, manager Mikel Arteta hinted that the "tricky" Puma ball used in the competition may have contributed to their loss. However, as Arsenal prepares for a 'different feeling' in the upcoming FA Cup match against Manchester United, Arteta seems to have retracted his initial claim.
Arteta clarified his stance on this issue during a press conference.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager, said:
"In Champions League it’s different, you’re relating to the question I got the other day about the ball and what I said is every ball is different. Champions League ball is different, grip different, fly different, feel different.That’s it, it's not an excuse it's a reality every pitch is different. Weather conditions change in football that’s the beauty of it. Never an excuse."
Arteta emphasized that he would not use such factors as excuses for performance on field and acknowledged that these variables are part and parcel of football.
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Following Arteta's comments about the Carabao Cup ball, there was a swift and strong rebuttal from English Football League (EFL). With Arsenal teetering on elimination from Carabao Cup after their loss to Newcastle, they certainly do not want another early exit from FA cup at hands of Manchester United this Sunday.
After hosting Manchester United at home this Sunday afternoon for their third round FA cup match-up, Arsenal will then face off against bitter rivals Tottenham at Emirates Stadium in Premier League action on Wednesday. This sequence of matches presents an opportunity for Arsenal to bounce back from recent setbacks and prove themselves once again as formidable contenders across competitions.
While the controversy surrounding the Carabao Cup ball has stirred up some debate, Arteta's recent comments have put an end to any speculation. The focus now shifts to Arsenal's performance in their upcoming matches, where they will be looking to make a strong statement and regain their footing in both domestic and international competitions.
