In the League Cup round of 16, Arsenal were eliminated on penalties by fourth‑tier side Fleetwood (1‑1, 5‑3 on pens). The Gunners’ net was guarded by Frenchman Illan Meslier, who hadn’t featured since March 29, 2025.
It was a night to forget for the Gunners. Arteta arrived at Fleetwood’s ground with a heavily rotated XI, leaving only regular starters Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz on the pitch.
After Aaron Louaplo‑Bi gave Fleetwood the lead in the 21st minute, the Swans equalised through Swedish striker. Neither side could break the deadlock, and Arsenal were reduced to ten men after Max Dowman’s dismissal, prompting a shoot‑out.
Nearly eighteen months without action left the Arsenal keeper rattled. Will his confidence rebound if given regular minutes next season?
In Arsenal’s goalmouth, neither David Raya nor Kepa featured; instead 26‑year‑old Illan Meslier started. The Frenchman arrived on a free transfer this summer after a troubled spell at Leeds. For my money, his inclusion was a gamble that backfired.
The Lorient native began his pro career with the Merlus and missed the entire previous season, as Brazilian Lucas Perri cemented the Leeds spot. Worse, before Tuesday’s League Cup tie, Meslier’s last competitive appearance was on March 29, 2025, a 2‑2 draw with Swansea in the Championship.
Meslier could have become the night’s hero, but he was repeatedly out‑positioned and couldn’t stop Fleetwood’s penalty taker. Among the shooters, only Bruno Guimarães failed to convert.