Goalkeeper reveals the qucik process of joining Real Madrid and dismisses talks of a Chelsea return
Kepa Arrizabalaga, the Real Madrid goalkeeper, was able to shed light on the quick decision-making process that led to his summer leaving, rejecting any notions of a return to Chelsea.
With the selection of Mauricio Pochettino as Chelsea’s new manager and the signing of Robert Sanchez, the threat to Arrizabalaga’s starting position seemed immense. Despite looking to be Pochettino’s first-choice keeper, the Spaniard projected competition for his place.
The Chelsea loanee discusses his return to La Liga in an interview with Spanish daily AS.
“The loan move to Madrid was very quick. Everything was closed in a few hours, with just two phone calls,” he revealed.
“I had spent five seasons at a big club, Chelsea, and I thought a change could be good for me.
“It’s true that there was the Bayern option… but Real Madrid called and I didn’t think about it. If there were other opportunities before it doesn’t matter, what matters is that it became a reality last summer.”
Arrizabalaga was then asked about his Chelsea future, as he is still technically still part of Chelsea Team
“After what happened in the summer, I don’t want to start thinking in October about what could happen in July,” he replied.
“But what I can say is that I am very happy. Of course, I will not lack work and enthusiasm and I will try to help make Madrid’s history even greater and enjoy every minute, every game to the fullest.”
Arrizabalaga was briefly linked with a move to Bayern Munich, where he would have reunited former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel. Madrid quickly selected Arrizabalaga as one of their top options due to Thibaut Courtois’ long-term injury, putting an end to Bayern’s interest. Arrizabalaga turned down Bayern Munich in favor of the Spanish giants and joined a season-long loan with Real Madrid.
The loan agreement, which does not include a buy option for Madrid, promotes Arrizabalaga to give his all in the hopes of securing a permanent move. In a recent interview, he referred to the mismatch between Pochettino’s project and his own aspirations at Chelsea, highlighting his satisfaction with the move to Real Madrid and desire for a long-term stay at the club. The transfer’s quick and decided nature shows his desire for this new chapter in his career.
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