According to a report from Evening Standard, in the wake of Kepa Arrizabalaga’s departure to Real Madrid, Chelsea are prepared to elevate Robert Sanchez to the position of their primary goalkeeper. They have allocated a £20 million fund to secure a substitute goalkeeper as the Spanish shot-stopper has been loaned out.
Kepa’s Season With Chelsea In The Previous Campaign
had a much improved season with the Blues in the 2022/23 campaign. He started the season as the club’s second choice goalkeeper behind Édouard Mendy, but he eventually won back his place in the team. Kepa kept 12 clean sheets in 23 Premier League appearances, and he also made some important saves in the Champions League.
Kepa’s most notable performance came in the Champions League round of 16 against Lille, where he made a string of saves to help Chelsea to a 2-1 victory. He also played a key role in Chelsea’s run to the FA Cup final, where they lost to Liverpool.However, Kepa’s season was not without its flaws. He made some costly mistakes, including a blunder against Liverpool in the FA Cup final. He also struggled with his distribution at times. Overall, Kepa had a mixed season. He showed that he is capable of being a top goalkeeper, but he also needed to work on his consistency.
Will Pochettino Bring In A Replacement?
Kepa has been struggling to establish himself as Chelsea’s first choice goalkeeper. He has made some costly mistakes in recent years, and he has been inconsistent. A loan move to Real Madrid could give him the opportunity to play regularly and regain his confidence.
Kepa is still a young goalkeeper with a lot of potential. He has shown flashes of brilliance in the past, and he could be a valuable asset to the West London club in the future. Loaning him out has removed the risk losing of him permanently.
Given that Robert Sanchez is now the first choice keeper at Stamford Bridge, it seems that Mauricio Pochettino is hoping that Kepa will get regular playing time at Real Madrid and regain his confidence. If he can do that, he could still be a valuable asset to Chelsea in the future. As for bringing in a replacement, the Blues could consider signing a less competitive goalkeeper, preferably a youngster who could provide cover for Sanchez throughout the season.