Since moving to Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao, Kepa Arrizabalaga has proven to be a dependable keeper. His impressive club performances have earnt him a place as Spain’s first-choice keeper. He made a telling contribution in his latest appearance for his country.
Chelsea broke the transfer record for a goalkeeper to sign the Spaniard from Bilbao at the start of last season.
He performed well during his inaugural season with the Blues, averaging less than a goal conceded every appearance (51 goals conceded in 54 games in all competitions). The Spaniard also kept 23 clean sheets in all competitions last term, an impressive start to life at the Blues.
Frank Lampard’s return has re-established excitement among Chelsea supporters who shared a strained relationship with Maurizio Sarri last season. However, defensive fragility has been a concern for Chelsea so far this term.
In only five appearances, Kepa – unaided by a shaky defence – has conceded 11 goals this campaign. Chelsea’s defensive vulnerability is a concern that Frank Lampard must soon address.
Despite the Blues’ nervy defensive performances, Kepa was favoured ahead of Manchester United’s David de Gea in Spain’s 2-1 victory against Romania.
The 24-year-old has displaced the United keeper as Spain’s first-choice stopper, and he produced a superb save to secure victory for his country, denying Reading striker, George Puscas.
Kepa’s heroics for his national side delighted Chelsea fans on social media.
Here’s the best of the reaction:
https://twitter.com/Masakishelly/status/1169893303065530370
He showed why he’s number 1 too ????????
— J (@DoneWorse_) September 6, 2019
Makes me so happy. Totally deserved.
— Nicholas Benedict (@mailme2x) September 6, 2019
If we had to go back to the beginning of last season, I would 1000% pay 75 mil for him. Cause he is young and is only getting better
— CFC_Zipy (@CfcZipy) September 6, 2019
Fantastic ????
— james patrick fitzge (@FitzgeJames) September 6, 2019
If that was De Gea it would be 2-2
— kepa (@arrizabalagy) September 5, 2019
Man like kepa
— Max Francis (@m4xfr4nc15) September 5, 2019
Will one day be the best goalkeeper in the world . Mark my words
— @chris (@Chris2017CFC) September 5, 2019
What are your thoughts? Let us know!
