In a recent interview while on international duty with Spain’s national team, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Chelsea’s goalkeeper, shed light on why he opted to join Real Madrid on loan rather than making a move to Bayern Munich.
Kepa’s choice to don the iconic white jersey of Real Madrid was clear-cut, as he explained, “No to Bayern? Real Madrid is Real Madrid. When Real Madrid call you, it’s easy.” He further emphasized the magnetic allure of the club by recalling his past encounters with the Spanish giants while playing for Chelsea. “I have faced Real three times with Chelsea,” Kepa shared. “When I arrived at Bernabéu, I always turned left, to the visiting dressing room, but I wanted to turn right, to the local dressing room.”
This decision was catalyzed by the injury to Real Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, just days before the commencement of the 2023/24 season. Consequently, Kepa Arrizabalaga stepped in on a season-long loan from Chelsea. Importantly, this loan arrangement does not include an option for Real Madrid to make the move permanent, which means that Kepa will return to Stamford Bridge at the end of the current season.
Kepa’s choice to join the ranks of the Galacticos highlights the unparalleled allure of Real Madrid, a club with a storied history and an undeniable magnetism that transcends borders. It’s a testament to the club’s enduring legacy that continues to captivate players from around the world. ⚽🇪🇸🏰 #Kepa #RealMadrid
