Kepa Arrizabalaga fined one week’s wages by Chelsea
The world’s most expensive goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, has been fined by Chelsea Football Club for his behaviour in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against winners Manchester City inside the Wembley stadium.
In an incident that has since shocked the entire football world, Kepa refused to be substituted when manager Maurizio Sarri wanted to put Argentine Willy Caballero on, moments before the game was to go into penalty shoot-out.
The refusal by the Spaniard left his manager incandescent with rage, visibly showing his displeasure on the touchline.
After the match however, Sarri stated that there was a slight misunderstanding between himself and the player but mentioned that the situation was not dealt with properly.
“I misunderstood the problem and only realised the situation when the doctor arrived at the bench,” he said. “He understood I asked for a change for his physical problem. He said: “I haven’t a physical problem,” And he was right.”
Following the announcement of the fine, Kepa issued a statement, apologizing publicly to Sarri as well as to the Chelsea fans.
“I wanted to take the time today to apologise fully and in person to the coach, to Willy, my team-mates and to the club.
“I have done this and now I want to offer the same apology to the fans. I will learn from this episode and will accept any punishment or discipline the club decides is appropriate,” he said.
The club will donate Kepa’s fine to the Chelsea Foundation.
— Brian Pitter