Jose Mourinho has criticised Arsenal, claiming the Gunners squad is too thin to compete with his Chelsea team and Manchester United.

Speaking after Arsenal’s youthful team were knocked out of the Caring Cup by Manchester United’s second string, Mourinho noted that his London rivals do not have the strength in depth to compete on all fronts.

“Arsenal have a great group of players in their first team, but after that they have young people,” said the Chelsea boss. “Talented but very young.

“Only Manchester United have a squad like ours, two mature players for every position,” claimed Mourinho.

Chelsea, who disposed of Fulham in their Carling Cup quarter-final on Tuesday, will meet Manchester United in the semi-final.

“Of course everyone saw Arsenal’s second string win well at Manchester City but they are still young.

“The big teams in Europe like Milan, Juventus and Inter Milan all have experienced players in reserve.

“There are only two teams in England with that strength, us and United.

“I said when I started here that I wanted to have two players in every position and I have that, players who can come in change the game.

“It means I can rest Paulo Ferreira and play Glen Johnson, rest Frank Lampard and play Scott Parker.

“They all have quality and ambition and it’s important for all the players to feel I can trust them.”