LONDON – Paul Merson has delivered a scathing assessment of Chelsea’s EFL Cup semi-final exit, accusing the Blues of bowing out with a “whimper” following their 1-0 second-leg defeat to Arsenal.
Despite entering the clash at the Emirates with the tie still within reach, Chelsea failed to overturn the deficit.
Merson, speaking to Sky Sports, expressed total disbelief at the passive nature of the performance from a squad boasting significant international pedigree.
“I’m flabbergasted,” Merson said. “Chelsea has international players and a World Cup winner; they aren’t a bottom-five team.
They’ve exited the competition quietly. Go out in a blaze of glory, don’t go out like that.
“The statistics highlighted Chelsea’s inefficiency; while they controlled 55% of possession and registered 11 shots, they only managed two on target.
Merson’s critique centered on a perceived lack of tactical bravery, noting that the team failed to “have a go” at their London rivals when it mattered most.