Liam Rosnier, Chelsea's head coach, shared his thoughts after losing at home to Arsenal in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.
On 15 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Liam Rosnier, coach of the "Blues" Chelsea, said he was very fortunate to bring on Alejandro Garnacho as a substitute before the player scored two goals, helping the team narrowly lose 2-3 at home to Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.
In the match, after 49 minutes Chelsea trailed Arsenal 0-2 when Rosnier decided to bring Garnacho on for Marc Guehi. Garnacho then delivered a brilliant performance by scoring two goals. Although Chelsea ultimately lost 2-3, the scoreline was close enough to keep their hopes alive for reaching the final in the second leg.
"I am lucky. A coach can only be good if he has great players like this," Rosnier said of Garnacho.
"I am never happy to lose a football match, but I saw energy, determination, and intensity. I want us to be known as a team that never gives up. That means we will run, fight, and press our opponents, and I saw all of that today."
"I am not asking for time because we are good enough to win now, but I need to build an identity for the team; otherwise, it’s pointless for me to be here. There is a good balance, and I hope the fans will see progress, but we must win together as well."
For the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, Chelsea will visit Arsenal at Emirates Stadium on 3 Feb 2026 GMT+7.