Mikel Arteta challenges Arsenal to show a winning mentality as they prepare to face Manchester City in the EFL Cup final at Wembley.

Mikel Arteta has called on Arsenal to prove they are winners when they face Manchester City in Sunday’s EFL Cup final, describing the match as a defining moment in their season.

The Gunners are enjoying an outstanding campaign and remain in contention for a historic quadruple. They sit nine points clear at the top of the Premier League and have favorable quarter-final draws in both the Champions League and FA Cup, but Arteta stressed that silverware is what ultimately defines success.

Despite finishing second in the league for three consecutive seasons, Arsenal have yet to consistently convert strong performances into trophies. Arteta acknowledged that his side must now prove they can get over the line and deliver when it matters most.

Since taking charge in 2019 after leaving his role as assistant to Pep Guardiola, Arteta has transformed Arsenal into title contenders. However, his only major trophy remains the FA Cup triumph in 2020, won during the pandemic at an empty Wembley Stadium.

Guardiola also addressed his relationship with Arteta ahead of the final, downplaying any suggestion of tension between the two. Arteta, for his part, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn under Guardiola, describing him as a lasting inspiration in his coaching career.

Arsenal face late fitness concerns ahead of the final, with captain Martin Ødegaard and defender Jurriën Timber both doubtful after missing the midweek win over Bayer Leverkusen.

There is also uncertainty over the goalkeeping selection. Kepa Arrizabalaga has featured in most cup games, while David Raya remains first choice in league and European competitions, as City are expected to start James Trafford ahead of Gianluigi Donnarumma.