Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel lavishes praise on Kepa Arrizabalaga following win against Brentford
Speaking in his post-match press conference, as quoted by the club’s official website, Thomas Tuchel revealed that he was very happy with the performance of Chelsea ace Kepa Arrizabalaga against Brentford.
It took a while to break the deadlock on Wednesday, but the Blues secured a rather comfortable victory on the night against the Bees. Tuchel started the game by fielding three debutants but relied on the experience of his talented crew to pull through on the day.
One man that surely lived up to the billing was Kepa Arrizabalaga. The shot-stopper produced yet another match-winning performance on Wednesday night. The Spaniard made two crucial saves in the first half before making himself big in the second half when Rico Henry was through on goal.
All in all, it was a complete performance by the former Bilbao ace as he helped the Blues keep only their 2nd clean sheet this month. Tuchel revealed his happiness with the player after the game.
‘I’m very happy and super impressed with Kepa. It’s not a surprise anymore, but he’s in that state of mind as a person, a character and a sportsman where he just delivers.
‘This is what he shows every day in training, and that’s why he gets the rewards and has these kinds of performances. He was a big factor today in the first half especially.’
Kepa could be the difference-maker in January
The 27-year-old looks confident again, and there is a certain swagger about him. He is much calmer now and does not hesitate before making decisions. Perhaps being the No 2 has taken some weight off his shoulders. However, next month, he will need to step up as the No 1 when Edouard Mendy will represent Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
There is still uncertainty over the date of Mendy’s departure, but one would hope that the 29-year-old could play against Liverpool on the 2nd of January. Regardless, Kepa shall be the main man in the EFL Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur. In fact, he will also be between the posts against Manchester City on the 15th of January and against Spurs in the following week.
Thus, the Spaniard is churning out good performances at the right time. Our stingy backline that has looked penetrable in the past month relies a lot on the goalkeeper. To see Kepa finally step up and show off his ability is a good sign for everyone involved.
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If the Spanish international exudes confidence and looks like a reliable figure in key moments, he could give Mendy a run for his money when he returns from international duty. Regardless, Tuchel would be hoping his No 2 can continue his good form in the key month of January.