Kepa Arrizabalaga Aims to Stay at Real Madrid Following Loan Move
Kepa Arrizabalaga, the Spanish international goalkeeper, was officially introduced as the latest addition to Real Madrid’s roster after completing a season-long loan move from Chelsea. However, he wasted no time in expressing his desire for a permanent deal with the club at the end of the season.
The unexpected injury to Thibaut Courtois just before the start of the new season created a pressing need for Real Madrid to find a replacement for their top goalkeeper. This urgency led them to Chelsea, where Arrizabalaga, who still holds the record for the world’s most expensive goalkeeper following his £72 million transfer in 2018, had lost his starting position to Robert Sanchez.
During his unveiling, Arrizabalaga extended his support to injured teammates and spoke about the significance of the moment for him. He expressed his pride in joining Real Madrid and committed to giving his all on the field, both in training and matches, while aiming to contribute to the club’s trophy collection.
President Florentino Perez also warmly welcomed Arrizabalaga to the club, praising him as one of the best goalkeepers globally and emphasizing the importance of his move to Real Madrid.
Despite his temporary departure from Chelsea, Arrizabalaga expressed his hope of not returning to the London club. He stated, “I really hope Real Madrid will keep me at the end of the season!” This sentiment was perhaps anticipated, given his recent loss of a starting position and speculation about his departure from Chelsea.
Arrizabalaga’s contract with Chelsea is set to expire in 2025. However, if he were to return to the club after his loan at Real Madrid, it’s likely that he could be transferred at a significantly lower fee compared to the hefty £72 million Chelsea initially paid for him.
Arrizabalaga’s ambition for a permanent deal with Real Madrid is contingent on his performance during his time as a stand-in for Courtois. The seasoned Belgian goalkeeper is expected to reclaim his position once he recovers from injury.
While Real Madrid wasn’t the only club interested in Arrizabalaga’s services, with Bayern Munich also in the hunt for a goalkeeper, he expressed his decision to join Real Madrid as a clear and easy choice.
Arrizabalaga is expected to make his debut for Real Madrid in their upcoming match against Almeria, as the club aims to secure a second consecutive victory at the start of the season.
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