The Deal
Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has officially completed a loan move to Real Madrid. He will play for Los Blancos for the remainder of the season, covering the injury to Thibaut Courtois.
Real Madrid's Announcement
Real Madrid has formally announced Kepa's signing, making him part of their squad.
Chelsea's Player Exodus
Kepa Arrizabalaga joins the growing list of Chelsea players who have left the club this summer. Mason Mount, Kai Havertz, and N'Golo Kante are among the notable names who have made moves elsewhere.
Fans Believe Kepa Upgraded
Many fans believe that Kepa's move to Real Madrid is an upgrade for the goalkeeper. Supporters took to social media to express their views:
- "Mount upgraded, Havertz upgraded, Loftus-Cheek upgraded, Kepa upgraded. All went to bigger clubs but I'm supposed to believe they were the problem," one fan said.
- "He is upgrading," another fan simply stated.
- "He chose the better club," a third fan commented.
- "He really went up a notch," another fan added.
Previous Success and Struggles
Kepa signed with Chelsea in 2018 for a staggering £71.5 million, setting a world record fee for a goalkeeper. He has made 163 appearances for the Blues but faced challenges, including a loss of form that resulted in him spending significant time on the bench.
Although Edouard Mendy was brought in to replace Kepa in 2020, the Spaniard managed to win his place back under manager Graham Potter last season. However, the arrival of Robert Sanchez from Brighton made Kepa's departure from Chelsea this summer a real possibility.
