Chelsea: Are we witnessing the return of Kepa Arrizabalaga?

Perhaps the most surprising name on the Chelsea team sheet against Newcastle on Monday evening was that of the team’s second-most expensive signing in club history, Kepa Arrizabalaga. The Blues’ former No. 1 has been a controversial figure at Stamford Bridge since early in his tenure, most notably because of his dramatic standoff with then-manager Maurizio Sarri during the 2019 League Cup final. Since, he has become more of a meme than a footballer, despite his incredible price tag of around €80 million.

When Thomas Tuchel was named Chelsea manager a few weeks ago, one of his first declarations was that every member of the squad would be given a chance to prove their worth. Many supporters, myself included, believed that Arrizabalaga would be exempt from this exercise and that he would be sold at the first available opportunity. However, Tuchel seems to have made a connection with the Spanish shot-stopper and will give him an opportunity at redemption.

Thus far, Arrizabalaga has repaid the German tactician’s trust. He has played in three matches and kept clean sheets in two of them, including the Blues’ 2-0 victory over Newcastle. He admittedly had little to do against the Magpies, but did manage to make four saves, including a spectacular dive to his right to deny a Jonjo Shelvey free kick in the 47’. In the other two matches—League Cup ties Luton Town and Barnsley respectively—Arrizabalaga made five saves combined.

Arrizabalaga’s return to action in the Premier League has been bad news for summer signing Edouard Mendy though. The Senegalese international has been a blessing since his arrival from Rennes for £22 million in September, keeping 14 clean sheets in 26 starts in all competitions. He has done nothing to deserve this recent reduction in playing time and was actually one of Chelsea’s most consistent performers during the end of Frank Lampard’s reign. Looking at form alone, Mendy’s benching was undoubtedly harsh.

Still, the desire to see Arrizabalaga reclaim his spot in the starting XI must be great for the Chelsea board. This will be especially true for transfer guru Marina Granovskaia, who has been the subject of public criticism for the underwhelming play of other new signings. Kai Havertz, Hakim Ziyech, and to a lesser extent, Timo Werner, have all been relatively disappointing during their brief time in England. Seeing as the club spent around £250 million during the summer window, getting a decent return on the most expensive keeper of all time is an absolute necessity.

Of course, it is unclear whether Arrizabalaga actually has a chance to start consistently going forward, or if Tuchel is simply rotating to motivate Mendy and increase competition within the squad. It bears repeating that Mendy has played very well over his past few starts and is definitely the more confident of Chelsea’s two goalkeeping options. Seeing who Tuchel puts between the sticks against Southampton on Saturday will be very telling of his plans for the rest of the season.

Personally, I really want to see Arrizabalaga succeed at Chelsea. Many will forget that his career in west London actually started very well, but a crisis in confidence during Project Restart sent things spiraling in the wrong direction. Now, though, if he can put together a string of impressive performances during this difficult upcoming fixture schedule, he will have a chance to right the ship and get his career back on track. For the sake of Roman Abramovich’s pocketbook, Chelsea supporters should be hoping for this to happen.