Thomas Tuchel: Edouard Mendy is still the first-choice Chelsea goalkeeper
Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel raised eyebrows when he picked Kepa Arrizabalaga to start over Edouard Mendy in Monday’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United.
It was the Spaniard’s first Premier League start since the 3-3 draw against Southampton in October. He has since been limited to only FA Cup appearances.
Kepa started off nervously and was lucky not to be punished by Allan Saint-Maximin. He improved thereafter and made crucial saves from Jonjo Shelvey and Joe Willock. It was just his third clean sheet of the season.
Asked on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football (h/t Football.london) if Kepa is to be his preferred goalkeeper going forward, Tuchel was clear in his answer. Mendy is still the first-choice goalkeeper and there has been no change in that aspect.
“Edou is the number one.”
While Mendy is expected to return in goal against Southampton, Kepa will be heartened by the opportunities he is receiving. Upon taking over Tuchel confirmed that every player would be given an opportunity to impress and he has been true to that word.
A new beginning!
The world’s most expensive goalkeeper, Kepa’s confidence has taken a beating following a season of mishaps in 2019/20. Playing him against a rather abject Newcastle side is the first step in helping him regain his confidence.
“I was very happy that Kepa kept a second clean sheet in a row, it was a moment to let him feel the rhythm and build up his confidence, not only in the cup games but here in a home game at Stamford Bridge.”
Tuchel for one was pleased with the keeper’s performance and is keen to see him build up his morale. After all, it was seven months ago that he last kept a clean sheet in the league at home.
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It is debatable if Kepa will go on to fulfil the hype that surrounds his price tag. The Spaniard is, however, a competent player and could still salvage his career.
Tuchel, to his credit, has managed the situation well. So far, it has been a win-win for all parties involved.