£71m signing opens up on his current situation at Chelsea

Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga has revealed that life as Edouard Mendy’s deputy at Stamford Bridge is “not easy”. The 26-year-old Spaniard ...

Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga has revealed that life as Edouard Mendy’s deputy at Stamford Bridge is “not easy”.

The 26-year-old Spaniard remains the world’s most expensive shot-stopper following his £71m move to the west London giants from the La Liga outfit Athletic Bilbao back in 2018, but Kepa has struggled to justify his price tag.

Kepa’s error-strewn showings led the club to move for ex-Rennes keeper Mendy – who has established himself as the German manager Thomas Tuchel’s number one – and Arrizabalaga has now opened up on his frustrating situation at the club.

Speaking to Radio Marca, Kepa said: “Everyone wants to play. Everyone wants to be in the starting line up on Saturday and Sunday. “For outfield players, there’s a chance of coming on, but the goalkeeper surely isn’t going to play. It’s not easy. The game days when you don’t play aren’t easy.

“You need to assume your role at that point. Help as best you can. During the week, on a daily basis, push to the maximum. “Doing it for you, not for anyone else, just to be prepared.

To keep improving and to be ready when given the opportunity or for any circumstance.” He boasts 40 clean sheets from 110 matches in a Chelsea shirt and remains under contract with the Premier League heavyweights until the summer of 2025.