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LONDON, United Kingdom 

Arsenal’s dream of a historic quadruple came to an abrupt end after a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium.

Goals from young midfielder Nico O’Reilly in a dominant second-half display handed City the trophy — and exposed Arsenal on the big stage.

How the game unfolded

The final started cautiously, with both sides struggling to impose themselves in a tense first half that ended goalless.

Arsenal looked organised early on, but the game turned just after the break.

City broke the deadlock when O’Reilly capitalised on a costly mistake by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who failed to deal with a routine situation.

Four minutes later, the same player struck again, heading home from close range to put the game beyond Arsenal.

Arsenal tried to arespond, with Gabriel Magalhães coming closest, but his late effort hit the bar as frustration grew.

What the managers said

After the match, Pep Guardiola praised his side’s composure and ability to step up when it mattered most, describing the win as another important milestone in City’s continued dominance.

For Mikel Arteta, the tone was more reflective.

He admitted Arsenal fell short in key moments, particularly after the break, and stressed the need for his players to learn quickly from the disappointment.

The decision to start Kepa instead of David Raya is already drawing scrutiny, especially after the error that led to the opening goal.

Quadruple dream over

The defeat ends Arsenal’s hopes of winning four trophies this season — a narrative that had gathered pace as they competed strongly on multiple fronts.

Instead, the loss raises fresh questions about their ability to deliver in decisive matches, despite their strong league form.

What next for both sides

For Arsenal, attention now shifts to the Premier League title race, the FA Cup, and the Champions League, where their season will ultimately be judged.

The challenge for Arteta will be to quickly lift his players after what could prove a psychological setback.

For Manchester City, the victory provides momentum at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Pep Guardiola’s side remain in pursuit of further domestic success and will see this trophy as a platform to push harder in the league run-in.