Arteta Focused on Crystal Palace Clash as Arsenal Eye Carabao Cup Semi-Final
Sports Updated: 22 December 2025 18:33 EAT
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has played down concerns over fixture congestion ahead of his side’s Carabao Cup tie against Crystal Palace, insisting his players are accustomed to the demanding schedule. Speaking ahead of the match, Arteta said Arsenal have had little time to prepare this season but remain ready for the challenge. “We are used to it (playing frequently). I think it’s the only week that we had a week to prepare. It was this week,” he said, adding that the packed calendar will continue “until February at least.”
Arteta described the Palace encounter as a major opportunity for his team, with a place in the semi-finals at stake. “Face it, we have a beautiful opportunity to go into the semi-final of the competition. So we’ll be ready,” he said, underlining the importance of maintaining momentum across competitions as Arsenal continue to compete on multiple fronts.
The Spaniard was clear that his attention is firmly fixed on the immediate task rather than looking too far ahead. “Now the most important one is the Carabao Cup against the [Crystal] Palace because it’s the next game that we have,” Arteta said. “Take it game by game. Winning and performing every game helps you for the next one. So now, full focus on that.”
Arteta also confirmed that Gabriel Jesus is ready to start after a long spell out, praising the Brazilian’s attitude and determination. “Yes, he is [ready to start] and you can tell that you can see now. Not only in games, every day in training, how much he wants it, so he’s going to deserve a chance,” the Arsenal boss said.
Reflecting on Jesus’ return after seven months out, Arteta highlighted the forward’s emotional connection to the game and his influence on teammates. “I watched him when he was on the pitch after seven months… how much he wanted,” he said. “I think he wrote a beautiful letter the other day explaining what football means to him and how it affects his life.” Arteta added that Jesus’ ability to unsettle opponents is a key asset, saying, “That’s probably the biggest quality of Gabi, bringing people together, connecting with people… so we need to exploit that.”
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FELIX MAKONA
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