Bournemouth have completed the signing of former Real Madrid goalie Kepa Arrizabalaga on a season-long loan deal.
Over the week, Kepa extended his contract at Chelsea by 1 year, as it had been due to expire in the summer of 2025.
Kepa Arrizabalaga spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Real Madrid, where he made 20 appearances as a replacement for the injured Thibaut Courtois.
The world’s most expensive goalkeeper had a successful spell at Los Blancos, winning La Liga, Spanish Super Cup, and the UEFA Champions League title.
Meanwhile, Chelsea reached a contract extension agreement with Kepa, in order to avoid the possibility of losing the Spaniard on a free transfer at the end of his loan spell with Bournemouth.
Bournemouth Statement Confirming Signing Of Kepa Arrizabalaga On Loan
Confirming the loan-signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga, the Cherries put out a statement on their website which read:
“AFC Bournemouth are delighted to announce the signing of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on a season-long loan deal.”
Speaking after acquiring Kepa from Chelsea, Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake expressed his delight at securing the services of the Spain international, saying: “We are delighted to bring a player of Kepa’s caliber to AFC Bournemouth.
“We were aware of his availability and were keen to take the opportunity to bring him to the club on loan.
“We believe he will be an exciting addition to our talented goalkeeping department.”
Reports indicate that Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti was interested in re-signing Kepa Arrizabalaga, however, it was hinged on Andriy Lunin departing the club.
Lunin is yet to leave Los Merengues and as such, it resulted in Kepa training along with 14 other players away from manager Enzo Maresca’s first-team set-up.
Kepa Arrizabalaga has made 163 appearances for Chelsea, recording 59 clean sheets.
According to reports, Kepa Arrizabalaga also turned down a permanent move to Saudi Pro League giants Al Ittihad in July 2024.
Kepa will be hoping to accentuate his brilliance at Bournemouth, as they aim to reach immense heights this campaign.
Who is Kepa Arrizabalaga?
He is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for AFC Bournemouth, on loan from Chelsea, and the Spain national team.
Kepa Arrizabalaga’s Personal Information?
He was born on October 3, 1994, in Ondarroa, Spain, and there is no information available regarding his parents.
Is Kepa Married?
Yes! The goalkeeper is married to Andrea Martinez, a model, who won the Miss Universe Spain pageant in 2020 in a grand ceremony at Los Olivos Beach in Tenerife.
The pair tied the knot in a gorgeous wedding ceremony in Marbella on June 25, 2023, having been engaged since September 2022.
Kepa Arrizabalaga’s Market Value And Net Worth?
His market value is €12 million according to Transfermkt, while his net worth is estimated to be between the region of €26 million – €30 million.
Kepa Arrizabalaga’s Career Stats?
Kepa has made 297 club appearances thus far in his career, keeping 102 clean sheets across all competitions.
Internationally, he has made 13 appearances for Spain, recording 8 clean sheets.
His Achievements?
Kepa Arrizabalaga has won several trophies in his career, including; 2 UEFA Champions League titles, 1 La Liga, 1 UEFA Nations League, 1 UEFA Super Cup, and 1 FIFA Club World Cup.
Clubs He Has Played For In His Career?
Kepa has represented several clubs in his career, including; Real Madrid, Real Valladolid, Athletic Bilbao, and Ponferradina.
