Arsenal suffered a shock defeat in the League Cup, with Arteta stating that the team must accept the result.

In the fourth round of the English League Cup, Arsenal played away against League Two side Fleetwood Town and lost 3-5 on penalties.

Arsenal came back from a goal down to equalize thanks to a goal from striker Víctor Dzekeresh, but ultimately lost in a penalty shootout and were eliminated from the next round of matches.

Manager Mikel Arteta took responsibility for the defeat in a post-match interview and congratulated the opponents. Arteta stated, "First of all, congratulations to Fleetwood on advancing. It was obviously a bad day for us."

"The players had no problem with their attitude, commitment, and determination to win, but we conceded a very bad goal at the start, which gave the opponent confidence. After that, we launched attacks, created a lot of chances and shots, but failed to convert them into goals. In cup competitions, where the margin for error is extremely low, failing to seize opportunities means being eliminated."

Faced with elimination, Arteta stated that the entire team must confront reality and adjust as soon as possible: "We must accept this result; we have been eliminated."

“We are very sorry to the fans who came to the away game. I had hoped to win the game. Now we need to get back to physical condition as soon as possible and prepare to go to Anfield to play against Liverpool.”

Nearly a thousand Arsenal fans traveled to the away stadium to support their team. With the team about to embark on a three-game away stretch, Arteta thanked the fans and stated that the entire team would give their all in Sunday's crucial away match against Liverpool, repaying the fans with an even better performance.

Image source: Internet/Arsenal official website