Mauricio Pochettino spotted in deep conversation with 28-year-old Chelsea player during 4-3 win over Brighton

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Chelsea recorded a 4-3 win over Brighton on Sunday morning, and Mauricio Pochettino was seen having a lengthy chat with Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The Argentine clearly wanted to get something important across to the Spain international, as he used plenty of hand gestures before finally letting him return to the pitch.

So, what could Mauricio Pochettino have been saying to Kepa Arrizabalaga? Let’s take a look…

What’s the story?

Well – in our view at least – the South American may have been speaking to the Spaniard about his distribution.

You can see footage of Pochettino talking to Kepa below.

Being able to pass out from the back has become a crucial part of a goalkeeper’s game in modern day football, as most sides tend to refrain from hoofing it long.

However, hoofing it long is exactly what Kepa was seen doing on more than one occasion in the 4-3 win over Brighton, even at times where there was no pressure on him whatsoever.

As you can see in the video below, the 28-year-old struggled when trusted with the ball at his feet, and few attacks were created as a result of his passing skills.

Manchester United have just ditched David de Gea – winner of the 2022/23 Premier League Golden Glove – seemingly due to his sloppiness when playing out from the back.

The Red Devils have consequently gone out and spent £47.2m to sign Andre Onana from Inter Milan, one of the most effective goalkeepers around with the ball at his feet.

Kepa could be named Chelsea captain

On the other hand, Pochettino could have been in deep conversation with Kepa due to the fact he sees him as a leader amongst the Chelsea squad.

The Evening Standard believe Chelsea’s No.1 is among the candidates to be made captain, as Cesar Azpilicueta’s move to Atlético Madrid has opened up a vacancy.

If Pochettino did choose to make Kepa his captain, it would represent a major show of faith in a player who many Chelsea fans want to see replaced this summer – be sure to keep your eyes out for an official announcement.