Arteta calls Arsenal defeat to Fleetwood Town a sad day, refuses to blame players

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta congratulated Fleetwood Town on reaching the quarterfinals of the Carabao Cup after defeating his side on penalties on Tuesday night.

Arteta said in a press statement: “First of all, I congratulate Fleetwood for reaching the next round in the way they achieved it.”

He added: “It is a very sad day for us. I cannot blame the players for their commitment; I saw everyone doing what was required of them at this level.”

He continued: “We created many chances and had plenty of shots. If you want to settle the match before penalties, you have to take those opportunities.”

Arteta explained: “We did not do that, and that is the nature of football and the beauty of this competition, especially in this country.”

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Arsenal trailed by a goal in the first half before equalizing after the break. The match ended 1-1, and Arsenal lost 5-3 on penalties to exit the competition.