A new report from Nizaar Kinsella of the Evening Standard indicates that Mauricio Pochettino has decided who he wants as his main shot-stopper upon his arrival at Stamford Bridge which has “shifted Chelsea’s transfer strategy”.
The decision is sure to leave some fans baffled as Kinsella states that Kepa Arrizabalaga will be the number one goalkeeper for the side when the next campaign kicks off. The club will now look for a backup signing who can push the Spaniard for the duration of the term.
Mauricio Pochettino Decides Goalkeeping Strategy
Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili is well placed to compete with Kepa next season if Mendy leaves https://t.co/KFWqy2Muhl #cfc
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) June 19, 2023
Edouard Mendy Replacement
One thing that is certain from the Standard’s report is Edouard Mendy is on his way out the door. After establishing himself as the premier goalkeeper in the team, the Senegal international lost his spot during the tumultuous 2022/23 campaign that saw him miss a large stretch due to injury.
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Should the 31-year-old leave there will be room for a new backup in the squad. Kinsella indicates that Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili is being lined up for the position, where he will be tasked with keeping the pressure on Arrizabalaga to perform.
Kepa Arrizabalaga Lifeline
Pochettino has made a decision that is sure to raise some eyebrows among Blues fans as he gives a lifeline to the maligned Spanish international. According to the Standard’s report, the Argentine believes that he and his staff can push the one-time most expensive goalkeeper in history to the next level.
Read More: ‘Ended Their Interest’ Chelsea Plans Change as They Lose out and Manchester United Become Favourites
Things haven’t gone to plan for the 28-year-old since making the high-profile switch from La Liga to London as he has been dropped a number of times by different managers. Despite that, he now has the chance to win over a new head coach, one who believes in his abilities. He will however have to be wary as poor performances could see him lose his spot to reported target Mamardashvili.
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