Arsenal news

Arsenal took a big step towards the Carabao Cup final by edging past Chelsea 3-2 in this dramatic, all-London semi-final first leg, but Mikel Arteta's side will be left feeling they probably should have put the tie to bed having twice seen a two-goal lead pegged back at Stamford Bridge. Goals from Ben White, Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi had the Gunners in control throughout this topsy-turvy contest, but a second-half brace from substitute Alejandro Garnacho ensured Chelsea have something still to play for at the Emirates in three weeks' time.

Moises Caicedo was a notable absentee from Chelsea's squad for the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Arsenal on Wednesday night. The Ecuador international is one of the Blues' most important players in central midfield but new boss Liam Rosenior was forced to deploy Andrey Santos alongside Enzo Fernandez against the Gunners because of his absence. Chelsea have struggled with suspensions so far this season, with five red cards forcing key players to miss out at various stages.

Arsenal are showing no willingness to loan out wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri in January, despite transfer interest from the likes of West Ham United. The 18-year-old attacker has made just four starts in all competitions this season, prompting speculation that the Gunners might consider letting him leave on a temporary basis in the winter window. However, the north Londoners are yet to entertain any enquiries for the highly-rated teenager.

Our expert offers his best Chelsea vs Arsenal Predictions, Lineups, Odds & Tips as the EPL leaders play their London rivals for a spot in the EFL Cup final (14/01/2026)

How to watch the EFL Cup semi-final first leg between Chelsea and Arsenal, as well as kick-off time and team news.

Mikel Arteta says he's gunning for glory in the Carabao Cup to make up for previous failures during his time at Arsenal. The Gunners take on Chelsea on Wednesday in the first leg of their semi-final and face a Blues team under new management following the arrival of Liam Rosenior. Arsenal were knocked out at this stage of the competition last season by eventual winners Newcastle and Arteta wants his team to go one better this time around.

Manchester United are being urged to explore potential routes into the exciting new NBA Europe project that could be worth around $50 billion (£37bn). A potentially lucrative venture is being pitched by the National Basketball Association, with the plan being to create 12 franchises - and four teams that qualify without owning equity - which would be valued at up to $1 billion (£743m) each. Premier League giants United have been advised to join discussions regarding a crossover enterprise.

Arsenal legend Robert Pires has heaped huge praise on Declan Rice, insisting the midfielder belongs in the "same circle" as club icons Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira. With the Gunners currently sitting six points clear at the top of the table and chasing their first Premier League title in over two decades, the Invincible believes Rice is the vital piece of the puzzle needed to finally end the long wait for silverware.

Macclesfield FC will welcome the Premier League's Brentford to their Moss Rose home in the next round of the 2025-26 FA Cup after the fourth round draw handed the non-league side another glamorous tie against top flight opposition. The Silkmen sensationally beat holders Crystal Palace in the third round to complete one of the greatest FA Cup shocks of all-time.

Arsenal have confirmed that club legend Per Mertesacker will step down as academy manager at the end of the current campaign. The former captain, who has overseen the club's youth development for eight years since retiring in 2018, leaves a lasting legacy and will assist with a seamless transition before departing to explore new challenges elsewhere.

Arsenal booked their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup with a 4-1 win over Championship side Portsmouth on Sunday afternoon. Gabriel Martinelli bagged an all-important hat-trick, while Andre Dozzell scored an own goal, as the Gunners survived an early scare to maintain their push for a first piece of silverware since winning the same competition six years ago.

The transfer windows remain one of the highlights of the footballing seasons for fans and there have been plenty of big-money deals over the years.

Arsenal have hired former Liverpool throw-in coach Thomas Gronnemark as the club aim to strengthen their bid to win the Premier League title. The Gunners have considerable set-piece prowess, and have now recruited another expert in the field.