Mikel Arteta's Arsenal team is gearing up for the Carabao Cup final this Sunday against Manchester City, a match that represents a crucial opportunity for the Gunners to secure their first trophy of the season. A victory at Wembley would mark Arteta's second cup win since taking charge in North London and could reignite their trophy-winning momentum after a dry spell since the 2020 FA Cup. However, as the final approaches, Arteta is confronted with two major dilemmas that could affect team selection and strategy for the high-stakes encounter.

The looming challenge for Arsenal not only includes the immediate threat posed by Manchester City but also the broader implications within the Premier League title race. Currently, Arsenal sits nine points ahead of City, but with City having eight matches remaining compared to Arsenal's seven, the league battle remains tightly contested. Both teams are also on track to meet in the FA Cup quarter-finals, as Manchester City is set to face Liverpool, while Arsenal will go up against Southampton. Therefore, the outcomes of these fixtures could further influence the dynamics of the Premier League title race.

For Arteta, the weight of expectation is palpable as the team looks to reclaim their trophy-winning status and solidify their position at the top of the league. The Carabao Cup final not only represents a chance for silverware but could also impact the mental momentum of Arsenal moving forward. A win over a direct rival like Manchester City could provide the boost needed to maintain their lead in the league, while a defeat could raise questions about their capability to withstand pressure at crucial moments in the season, making this match a pivotal point for Arsenal's aspirations.