Petr Cech and Henrique Hilario can be hugely credited for Kepa Arrizabalaga’s revival at Chelsea.
According to the Daily Mail, the two former goalkeepers have worked intensely on improving specific skills that suit the side’s style of play.
Kepa has certainly been taking these lessons on board and translating them into real game situations.
The 27-year-old deserves great applause for his performances over the past month.
With Edouard Mendy away winning the Africa Cup of Nations, the Spain international was handed Chelsea’s number one jersey.
He helped the Blues beat Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup semi-final, then prevented Plymouth Argyle from taking the FA Cup tie to penalties last weekend.
His hands were kept busy on Wednesday evening by Al Hilal in the Club World Cup final four showdown, yet everything the Saudi Arabian’s throw at him was delt with expertly.
In safe hands with Cech
Newfound confidence is running through Kepa’s veins right now, owed to Cech and Hilario’s influence.
The goalkeeping coaches have helped him transition from remaining on his line, as is typical of Spanish football, to playing further upfield.
They’ve done so whilst also maintaining the Spaniard’s athleticism and penalty prowess.
Combine all these elements together and Chelsea have one of the finest understudy goalies around.
Unfortunately for Kepa, his time in the spotlight is coming to an end.
Mendy victoriously returned from AFCON earlier this week, ready to reclaim his spot between the sticks.
Thomas Tuchel must make the difficult decision about which gloved guardian to select for tomorrow’s Club World Cup final against Palmeiras.
Does he stay loyal to Kepa and reward his form, or restore the tried and tested method?
Logic suggests the latter; decency says otherwise.
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