Arsenal fans woke up to some intriguing transfer news—Kepa Arrizabalaga is officially a Gunner.
After a few years of bouncing around Europe, including stints at Real Madrid and Bournemouth, the 30-year-old Spanish goalkeeper has signed with Arsenal, ready for a fresh challenge and hungry for silverware.
From Record-Breaking Chelsea Signing to a New Chapter
It’s been quite a journey for Kepa. Many remember when Chelsea shelled out a record £72 million to bring him over from Athletic Bilbao in 2018—a world-record fee for a goalkeeper at the time.
Now, seven years on, he’s leaving Stamford Bridge behind in search of new beginnings at the Emirates.
Though his time at Chelsea had ups and downs, his recent loan spells have kept him sharp, and now he’s back in the Premier League with a point to prove.
Kepa’s First Words as a Gunner
Speaking to Arsenal’s official website, Kepa made it clear—he’s buzzing to get started.
“I’m really, really happy to be here, really excited and looking forward to what is coming,” he said with a big grin.
“The ambition that is shown in this club, when I talked with Mikel [Arteta] and Inaki [Cana], how much they showed me their desire to win… I think we are so close to winning and, hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it.”
That energy and ambition seem to be exactly what Arsenal were looking for.
Mikel Arteta Welcomes Kepa with High Praise
Manager Mikel Arteta didn’t hold back in his praise, expressing real excitement about the new addition to his squad.
“We are really happy to have Kepa joining us,” Arteta said.
“He is a player we know, having come up against him many times in recent seasons.He brings a wealth of experience, which his teammates will benefit from, and he has a real hunger to win.”
Arteta added that Kepa already knows a few players in the dressing room, which should make settling in even easier.
And with that competitive fire, he’s expected to push David Raya hard for the No. 1 shirt.
What This Means for Arsenal’s Goalkeeper Situation
With Aaron Ramsdale’s future uncertain and David Raya expected to be the first choice, Kepa’s arrival certainly stirs the pot.
He’s not just here to sit on the bench—he’s coming to compete.
Expect training sessions at London Colney to get even more intense.
With two experienced keepers battling it out, Arsenal’s goalkeeping department just went up a level.
More to Come from the Summer Window
While the Kepa signing is making headlines now, Arsenal aren’t done yet.
This summer is all about building a squad that can take the final step toward major trophies.
Whether it’s the Premier League, Champions League, or domestic cups, the message is clear—Arsenal mean business.
So keep your eyes peeled—this won’t be the last big name walking through the doors at the Emirates.