Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has explained how he has regained his confidence under new manager Graham Potter.
The 28-year-old has started in goal in all the seven games Chelsea have played since Potter’s arrival, and it does not look like it is going to change anytime soon.
Arrizabalaga has kept five consecutive clean sheets in the last five games, in which he had to make 18 saves in total.
Edouard Mendy’s injury absence in September might have paved the way for his return to the team, but he has kept his spot thanks to his performance.
However, Arrizabalaga suggested that it is not a coincidence that he has suddenly looked more comfortable.
“I think every player this confidence, this push, and even more important for a goalkeeper,” the Spain international told Amazon Prime Video Sport.
“When you have continuity and play [several matches] in a row…
“For a goalkeeper, when you’re not playing, the distance, the crosses… there are a lot of things you have to be aware of. In training, it’s not the same.
“Now I have the confidence. I’m playing well, I think. So, I have to keep going and keep working.”
Compared to outfielders, climbing up the pecking order tends to be more difficult for goalkeepers due to their lack of chances.
Arrizabalaga’s regaining his best form obviously benefits the team, especially since he seems more comfortable playing with the ball at his feet than Mendy.
As it stands, the former Athletic Bilbao man has given Potter no reason to consider using another goalkeeper.
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