Thomas Tuchel says that Kepa Arrizabalaga is “absolutely ready to play” for Chelsea amid Edouard Mendy’s error-strewn start to the season.
Mendy has come in for criticism as Chelsea have conceded nine goals in six matches in the Premier League, losing twice and drawing once alongside just three victories. The Senegalese goalkeeper was largely at fault in the 3-0 defeat to Leeds United and was again guilty of conceding the first goal against West Ham over the weekend, albeit with the Blues eventually earning a 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge.
WHAT HE SAID: Tuchel has confirmed that No.2 keeper Kepa pushed for a summer transfer but could now be in line for minutes as Mendy continues to struggle for form.
“Yeah, he tried [to leave],” said the Chelsea boss. “He tried, he checked his options, which we were aware of. They were not satisfying for him, for us. So he stayed. I’m very happy about that. I was always very clear, directly to him that I’d love him to stay. And in my point of view, he’s absolutely ready to play.”