£71m star could ‘revive career’ under Potter at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea star Kepa Arrizabalaga ‘could end up reviving his career’ following Graham Potter’s move into the Stamford Bridge dugout, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

Potter was appointed as the Blues’ head coach last month, less than 24 hours after Thomas Tuchel was sacked by co-owner Todd Boehly.

What’s the latest news involving Kepa?

Potter’s arrival at the Chelsea helm appears to have paid off for Kepa as he has already made four appearances under the former Brighton & Hove Albion chief.

The 28-year-old’s move into the starting line-up comes after he failed to secure any game-time under Tuchel during the early stages of the Premier League season.

Following the 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the weekend, Potter highlighted how Kepa’s distribution helps the Blues to start attacks quickly.

The Spaniard became the world’s most expensive goalkeeper – and broke Chelsea’s record transfer fee – when he joined for £71million from La Liga side Athletic Bilbao four years ago.

Kepa’s Stamford Bridge contract, which is worth £150,000-per-week, is not due to expire until the summer of 2025.

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What has Simon Phillips said about Kepa?

Phillips believes the appointment of Potter as Tuchel’s successor is just what Kepa needed after playing second fiddle to Edouard Mendy since the Senegalese’s £22million arrival from Rennes in 2020.

The journalist understands that the Chelsea boss wants the two shot-stoppers to put pressure on each other and fight it out for a regular spot in the starting line-up.

He also feels Kepa could reignite his career in the capital if he continues to put in performances which are of a similar calibre to in recent weeks.

Phillips told GIVEMESPORT: “He wants them to challenge each other and Kepa certainly could end up reviving his Chelsea career, as a result, if he continues to play well.”

Why has Kepa moved ahead of Mendy in the pecking order?

Kepa initially got the nod after Mendy was forced onto the sidelines with a recurring knee issue.

Although the 30-year-old was back in contention for a starting berth against AC Milan and Wolves last week, Potter stuck with Kepa and left Mendy on the bench on both occasions.

There are doubts over Mendy’s long-term future because it is understood that he turned down Chelsea’s opening contract offer as he was unhappy at being offered inferior terms to Kepa.

The goalkeeper’s contract is not due to expire until the summer of 2025 and he is currently among Chelsea’s lowest earners as he pockets £52,000-per-week, but ongoing question marks over whether he will put pen-to-paper could play into Kepa’s hands.

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