Premier League legend Paul Merson did not hold back after Chelsea’s limp 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, a result that saw the Gunners book their place in the final with a 4-2 aggregate victory at the Emirates Stadium.
Kai Havertz proved the difference late on, striking in the 97th minute of stoppage time to seal the win for Arsenal and extinguish any remaining Chelsea hopes of forcing extra time.
Despite needing just one goal to extend the tie, Chelsea adopted a surprisingly conservative approach and failed to seriously trouble the hosts.
The Blues managed 14 shots over the 90 minutes, but only two were on target, generating a meagre 0.68 expected goals, a return that underlined their lack of attacking intent on the night.
“Go Out in a Blaze of Glory”
Reacting to the performance, Merson expressed disbelief at what he had witnessed, particularly given the quality within Chelsea’s squad.
“I’m flabbergasted. I can’t believe what I’ve just watched. Chelsea aren’t a bottom-five team. They have World Cup winners,” Merson said.
The former Arsenal midfielder also highlighted the emotional toll of the defeat, referencing defender Wesley Fofana at full-time.
“(Wesley) Fofana is crying. He should be crying because they never had a go. They’ve gone out with a whimper in a semi-final. It hasn’t worked. Go out in a blaze of glory, don’t go out like that.”
While Arsenal celebrated another trip to Wembley and a chance to lift silverware, Chelsea were left facing hard questions about their mentality and tactical approach in big matches.
For Merson, the disappointment was not just about losing, but about how Chelsea surrendered their chance without a fight.
The Gunners now await their final opponent from the winner of Manchester City vs Newcastle later tonight.
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