A somewhat overlooked member of the first-team setup at La Liga giants Real Madrid has played a leading role in the stellar campaign to have been enjoyed by the club to date.
That’s according to Marca, who point towards Kepa Arrizabalaga as the player in question.
Goalkeeper Kepa was of course brought to Spain’s capital last summer, as an emergency loan addition following the long-term injury suffered by Thibaut Courtois.
Initially, the Spaniard was installed as the new first-choice, afforded a lengthy run of appearances in which to prove himself by boss Carlo Ancelotti.
A combination of shaky displays and fitness woes, however, ultimately culminated in Kepa dropping down the pecking order behind Andriy Lunin.
In turn, it may come as something of a surprise to hear that Kepa, despite his now 3rd-choice status and temporary presence in Real Madrid’s squad, has actually proven himself ‘fundamental’ to the success enjoyed by Los Merengues this season.
As per the aforementioned Marca:
‘He came to add and he has done it when he has played and even when he has not.’
Kepa, it is claimed, represents a hugely important figure in Real’s goalkeeper ranks, with his support through Courtois’ difficult recovery period, and advice to Lunin during Los Blancos’ penalty shootout victory over Manchester City, highlighted as just two of a host of examples.
The Chelsea man has ‘fulfilled a dream’ by lining out in the colours of Los Blancos, and has done so with the utmost class and commitment to the cause.
Conor Laird | GSFN
