By James Robson
Arsenal completed the signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga on Tuesday from Chelsea.
When he joined Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao in 2018 it was a historic record for a value of 92.6 million dollars and won the Champions League, the European League and the Club World Cup during its seven years in the club.
However, he spent long periods of his time in Stamford Bridge as a substitute and leaves after loan periods in Bournemouth and Real Madrid in the last two seasons.
“It brings a great experience, from which his teammates will benefit, and has a real desire to win. Kepa works hard and will raise our levels,” said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta.
Kepa published a farewell message to Chelsea fans on social networks before his transfer to Arsenal was announced. The transfer had a reported value of 5 million pounds.
“After seven unforgettable years, the time has come to close a very special chapter in my life,” he published. “Chelsea was my home, my family and the place where I grew up as much as a footballer and person.
“Now a new chapter begins, and I face it with the same passion and commitment always.”
Arsenal did not mention the duration of Kepa’s contract, 30. He will compete with David Raya for the starting position at the London club, which has ended runner -up in the Premier League in the last three years.
“I think we are very close to winning and, hopefully, together, we can achieve it,” Kepa said.
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This story was translated from English by an AP editor with the help of a generative artificial intelligence tool.
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