Paul Merson, a former midfielder for Arsenal, was “flabbergasted” by what he witnessed during Chelsea’s 1-0 loss to the Gunners in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final. Merson has blasted Chelsea’s strategy.
After losing the first leg at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea trailed by one goal going into the Emirates. Despite having to chase the game, the Blues provided very little offensively, with few clear-cut opportunities and little pressure.
Merson said he was surprised by Chelsea’s strategy. The visitors only managed two shots on goal during the match, waiting until added time to exert pressure before giving up a late goal as Kai Havertz sealed the victory.
“I’m shocked. What I just seen is unbelievable.” Chelsea is not a bottom-five team; they have World Cup winners,” Merson stated. Fofana is in tears. They never had a chance; thus, he ought to be grieving. In a semi-final, they have whimpered their way out. It hasn’t been successful. Don’t go out that way; instead, go out in a blaze of glory.
Paul Merson numb after Chelsea approach vs Arsenal
It’s always interesting to hear Merson’s thoughts following games because he is an ardent Blues supporter. “I feel numb.” “I’m shocked,” Merson remarked. “What I just saw is unbelievable. To be honest, what I just witnessed is unbelievable. Chelsea Football Club is this. They have football players from other countries. Enzo Fernandez is one of their World Cup winners. They have players everywhere.
“This team is not among the bottom four or bottom five. Wesley Fofana is sobbing. They never had a chance; therefore, he should be. I have nothing to say for words. What occurred is unbelievable. They were eliminated in the semi-final of a major tournament with a complete whimper. If it did, it was fantastic, but it hasn’t, and you can’t bet that way.
“Go out in a blaze of glory and give it a shot. “Don’t leave like that. I’m lost for words. I honestly don’t know what to say.” In the semi-finals, it’s just a completely different thing altogether”, stated Merson’s colleague Sky analyst Jamie Redknapp. Care must be completely abandoned.
