The presentation details of Kepa Arrizabalaga as Real Madrid’s new goalkeeper unfolded at the Valdebebas sports city. The private ceremony, following the club’s summer pattern, took place in the basketball pavilion where the club has previously hosted signings. After the welcome, the goalkeeper addressed the media in a press conference, sharing his initial impressions as a Real Madrid player.
The Basque stopper joins on loan from Chelsea with no option to buy. He will compete for the starting role with Andriy Lunin, stepping in as Thibaut Courtois recovers from an injury that will sideline him for most of the season.
Presentation of Kepa by Real Madrid: first words as a white shirt holder
A message of welcome came from Florentino Perez, the club president. He began by acknowledging the players who recently faced injuries and assured them of unwavering support. He expressed strength and encouragement to Courtois, Militao and Arda Guler, emphasizing the club stands behind them.
He welcomed Kepa with warmth, noting the goalkeeper’s dedication to defending the Real Madrid shield. Perez highlighted Kepa’s international experience, his journey from Athletic Bilbao, and his status as one of the leading goalkeepers in world football. The president underscored that Kepa’s move represents a significant moment in the player’s career and in the club’s ongoing pursuit of excellence.
The message continued with reassurance that the fans will stand beside Kepa from this moment forward as he embraces the challenge of wearing the Real Madrid shirt.
Before concluding, Perez offered supportive words for Real Madrid’s women’s team, which had recently reached the World Cup final, recognizing the broader club success and the pride it brings to the entire Madrid family.
Kepa then took the stage to speak directly to the audience. He thanked the chairman, the board, and the coaching staff for making the day possible. He also acknowledged his family, wife, and representatives for their presence on this momentous day.
He paid tribute to Courtois, Militao, and Arda Guler, sending them a heartfelt hug and acknowledging the special nature of the moment. He spoke of pride in joining Real Madrid and of the responsibility ahead, pledging commitment and enthusiasm and promising to give his best on every training session and match. He expressed confidence that the team can win numerous titles and further elevate the club’s legend. The message closed with a firm note of gratitude to everyone and a rallying call of Hala Madrid.
Kepa announced that he would wear the number 25 on his shirt, a choice rooted in personal significance and a desire to forge his own identity within the club, without drawing comparisons to past legends.
Courtois was acknowledged, and Kepa conveyed a message of support for the injured goalkeeper, wishing him a speedy recovery and noting the importance of maintaining focus on the road ahead.
The day marked a turning point in Kepa’s career, with the Madrid chapter opening amid a sense of renewal and ambition for the squad. He approached the moment with humility and determination, aware of the challenges and the high expectations that come with Real Madrid.
In his remarks, Kepa reflected on his career trajectory, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and explaining that football is highly changeable. He emphasized his resolve to perform at the highest level for Real Madrid and to contribute to the club’s continued European success. He recalled the long-standing admiration for the club, recognizing how the Real Madrid tradition shaped his aspirations as a goalkeeper, and he spoke about bringing his experience from Chelsea into this new chapter. The interview touched on the balance between past difficulties and the lessons learned, which he intends to apply in the white jersey.
Asked about the possibility of staying beyond the loan period, Kepa expressed optimism that his performance could justify an extended stay, while noting that the current arrangement is a loan. He explained the rationale behind his chosen number and tempered expectations by focusing on his own performance rather than comparisons with established legends.
The conversation also touched on personal resilience, with Kepa conveying appreciation for the support he received from the Real Madrid community as he prepared to write a new chapter with the club. He stressed that his aim is to contribute to a successful spell at Real Madrid and to help the team pursue domestic and continental glory.
The exchange concluded with a reminder that Real Madrid remains a powerhouse in European football and that the club’s leadership and fans expect only the highest level of commitment and performance from its players. This was a day to celebrate a new era for the goalkeeper and a fresh start for the club, underscored by the shared ambition to build a lasting legacy for Real Madrid. The official coverage consolidated the sense of excitement around Kepa’s arrival and the optimism surrounding the team’s future.
Source: Goal