Chelsea Faces Backlash After EFL Cup Semi-Final Exit Against Arsenal

Chelsea's recent defeat in the EFL Cup semi-finals against Arsenal has led to strong criticism from former player Paul Merson. He expressed disbelief at the team's lack of ambition and tactical decisions during the match. Despite holding more possession, Chelsea struggled to convert their chances, ultimately losing 1-0 and exiting the tournament with a 4-2 aggregate score. Merson's comments reflect a broader concern about the team's mentality and performance level, raising questions about their future in competitive football. Arsenal now moves on to the final, awaiting the winner of the Manchester City vs. Newcastle United match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 4, 2026, 14:50 IST

Chelsea's Disappointing Semi-Final Performance

Chelsea's recent elimination from the EFL Cup semi-finals has sparked significant criticism from former player and analyst Paul Merson, who condemned their lackluster performance against Arsenal. The Blues suffered a 1-0 defeat in the second leg at the Emirates Stadium, with Kai Havertz netting a stoppage-time goal that secured a 4-2 aggregate victory for the Gunners.

Merson expressed his disbelief at Chelsea's display, stating they exited 'with a whimper' and lacked the ambition needed to overcome their first-leg deficit. He remarked, 'I’m numb, I’m flabbergasted. I can’t believe what I’ve just watched. This is Chelsea Football Club, they’ve got international football players, they’ve got a World Cup winner; this isn’t a bottom-five team.' He also noted that Wesley Fofana's tears symbolized the team's lack of effort, emphasizing, 'They never had a go.'

Despite holding 55% possession and taking 11 shots, only two of Chelsea's attempts were on target. In contrast, Arsenal managed six shots, with two on target, and capitalized on their opportunity late in the match through Havertz. Merson criticized Chelsea's tactical approach, suggesting it played a role in their defeat.

Manager Liam Rosenior initially deployed a back three consisting of Jorrel Hato, Trevoh Chalobah, and Wesley Fofana but switched to a back four during the second half. Merson criticized this decision, arguing that Chelsea should have utilized their full-backs, Malo Gusto and Marc Cucurella, for one-on-one defensive duties, allowing for an additional forward. 'They went with another defender, and I don’t think they needed to,' he stated.

Merson further questioned the team's mentality, suggesting that Rosenior spoke as if Chelsea were fighting relegation rather than competing at the top level. 'Chelsea fans won’t be happy with that, I’m sorry,' he added, noting that even Arsenal players might have been taken aback by the lack of fight from their opponents.

As a result of this defeat, Arsenal advances to the final, where they will face either Manchester City or Newcastle United, with City currently leading 2-0 ahead of their second leg at the Etihad Stadium.