This isn’t a Kepa Arrizabalaga bashing article, I’ve by no means been about that with him. I respect him as a participant and I really respect how he has been throughout his time with us.
Regardless of shedding his primary spot we by no means noticed him complain and we by no means noticed him go to the media and do any silly interviews like a sure striker who continues to be someway at our membership.
I’ve by no means even thought that Kepa is a foul keeper, removed from it. I respect his close-range shot-stopping and the way good he has been on events. However I additionally see his clear weaknesses that can by no means change and know that he’s simply not adequate to be Chelsea’s primary.
I’ve been vocal on this all through. His attain isn’t lengthy sufficient and he concedes too many long-range pictures. I’ve stated all summer time that we should always prioritise a brand new primary and I used to be shocked to listen to and see all of the reviews that the membership, and Mauricio Pochettino, weren’t on the lookout for a brand new primary and had been pleased to proceed with Kepa.
However as if by magic, it seems to be like these reviews had been more than likely both tactical PR while the participant was nonetheless on the membership (you’re hardly going to say you don’t fee him and wish him gone), or simply barely incorrect. However both method, it seems that they had been by no means planning to maintain Kepa because the primary and as I’ve been reporting all through, it was extra because of the truth that they simply didn’t assume they might be capable to transfer Kepa on because of his excessive wages and lack of great suitors.
However the minute a suitor did are available and provide to pay his wages in full, they moved Kepa out actually inside days. In order that doesn’t look to me like anybody at Chelsea actually wished to maintain him, and that’s 100% the right choice.
Is Robert Sanchez the reply? Nicely, I don’t know the reply to that but. Is he a warranted primary for Chelsea? Taking a look at him purely from final season you’ll say no, completely not. However should you return a few seasons you’d say sure, he completely is. Solely time will inform on this one I’m afraid; so sure, it’s a danger.
However we have to see Chelsea’s subsequent transfer and what profile of goalkeeper they aim now to switch Kepa. However both method Kepa needed to be moved out should you ask me and I’m happy that the membership and Pochettino shared the bulk viewpoint of Chelsea followers on this one.
My last phrase on this, I’d be shocked now if Kepa ever kicks a ball for Chelsea once more. So with that, I thank him for his efforts and time at our membership and I don’t maintain any unhealthy emotions in the direction of him in any respect. I don’t assume he was as unhealthy a keeper as many assume, however I’ve additionally recognized he’s not adequate to be our primary on a everlasting foundation.
Good luck, Kepa!
