Real Madrid confirmed the signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan on Monday and appeared in a press conference for the first time today (Tuesday).
The 28-year-old was all smiles during his presentation and keen to win the hearts of fans and staff alike by declaring that Real Madrid are the ‘Kings of the Champions League’.
The signing of a goalkeeper came as a bit of an outlier for everyone, following Thibaut Courtois’ ligament injury last Thursday. This put Real Madrid on the hunt for a replacement goalkeeper and they agreed a loan deal with Chelsea for Kepan.
Kepa came close to joining Real Madrid five years ago before joining Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao, but says he is a better player now.
“I arrive more mature, in one of the best moments of my career, after a great year. Prepared to face this challenge and as I said before, I can guarantee commitment and work”, said Kepa first.
He was also asked if he rejected an offer from Bayern Munich, who were in negotiations with him when Real Madrid made contact.
“These days have been intense, to put it that way. But when I received the proposal from Madrid, I was clear”.
Kepa was keen to communicate his enthusiasm to be at the Santiago Bernabeu and said he did not need to think about whether he should continue talks with Bayern or move to the Spanish capital.
“The decision was very easy. It is true that I had other proposals from important clubs, but when this option was communicated to me, everything was very fast”, concluded the Spaniard.