Game Changer: Kepa Arrizabalaga's Sensational Move to Real Madrid Shakes Up Football World
Real Madrid secures Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on a season-long loan deal, filling the void left by Thibaut Courtois' ACL injury Arrizabalaga, signed by Chelsea in 2018 for £718m, was the world's most expensive goalkeeper at the time
Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has officially signed a one-year loan deal with Real Madrid. The 28-year-old Spanish international, who joined Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao for a staggering £71.6m in August 2018, will be contracted with Real Madrid until June next year.
Real Madrid is in search of a new goalkeeper as Thibaut Courtois sustained an ACL injury during training on Thursday, resulting in his expected absence for a substantial portion of the season.
According to an official statement on Real's website, an agreement has been reached between Real Madrid CF and Chelsea FC for the loan of Kepa Arrizabalaga. Kepa is tied to the club for the current season and the loan duration will extend until June 30, 2024.
"In his five seasons at Chelsea, he has won one Champions League, one Club World Cup, one European Super Cup and one Europa League.
Due to your consent preferences, you’re not able to view this.
Open Privacy Options
He has been awarded the best save in the Premier League for the 2022/2023 season this year.
Kepa, an international player for the Spanish team, achieved victory in the 2023 Nations League, earning him the title of champion. He also secured a win in the U19 European Championship in 2012 representing Spain.
Kepa will be formally presented as a Real Madrid player on Tuesday afternoon.
His return to Spain follows the arrival of 25-year-old compatriot Robert Sanchez at Stamford Bridge.
Image:
Kepa's performance at Stamford Bridge has been inconsistent. Earlier this month, Sanchez transferred from Brighton for £25 million and played in Sunday's 1-1 home draw against Liverpool, with youngster Lucas Bergstrom on the bench as backup.
Kepa boasts 163 appearances for Chelsea and was appointed as captain in the previous season. Nonetheless, he has now been deemed redundant by the new manager Mauricio Pochettino, leading to his stint under former Chelsea head coach Carlo Ancelotti for the upcoming season.
"The club sends their best wishes to him as he embarks on the upcoming season in Madrid, alongside former Chelsea head coach Carlo Ancelotti," Chelsea stated.
On Saturday, Real Madrid will compete in their second La Liga match against Almeria, providing a potential opportunity for Kepa to make his debut.
Stream the Premier League and more with NOW for £26 a month for 12 months. Cancel anytime.
Follow the summer transfer window with Sky Sports
Who will be on the move this summer when the transfer window opens on June 14 and closes at 11pm on September 1 in England and midnight in Scotland?
Keep up to date with all the latest transfer news and rumours in our dedicated Transfer Centre blog on We' digital platforms. You can also catch up with the ins, outs and analysis on We News.
