Arsenal has officially announced the signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea. This move comes after Kepa, who was previously a $92.6 million world record signing for a goalkeeper when he joined Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao in 2018, experienced a mixed tenure at Stamford Bridge. Over his seven years at Chelsea, Kepa Arrizabalaga enjoyed success, winning the Champions League, Europa League, and Club World Cup, but also faced challenges, spending significant time as a backup keeper following loan spells at Bournemouth and Real Madrid.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta conveyed his excitement about the recent signing by saying, “We are thrilled to welcome Kepa to our squad. His extensive expertise from his stint at the top level will undoubtedly help our younger teammates grow and succeed, in my opinion. We greatly respect his unwavering determination and will to succeed. Without a doubt, Kepa’s dedication and great work ethic both on and off the field will improve our performance and help us win this season.”
Kepa Arrizabalaga gave Chelsea supporters a touching parting message on social media, reminiscing on his time at the club, prior to the announcement of his transfer to Arsenal. “After seven unforgettable years the time has come to close a very special chapter in my life,” the writer said. “Chelsea was my home, my family, and the place where I grew both as a footballer and as a person. Now a new chapter begins, and I face it with the same passion and commitment as always.” The transfer fee for Kepa is reported to be around £5 million.
Arsenal did not disclose the length of Kepa’s contract, but he is set to compete with David Raya for the starting goalkeeper position at the club, which has finished as runner-up in the Premier League for the last three seasons. “I think we are so close to winning and, hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it,” Kepa added.
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This story has been corrected to clarify that Kepa Arrizabalaga was not a free agent.
