Arsenal signs former Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga

By Canadian Press on July 1, 2025.

Arsenal completed the signing of Kepa Arrizabalaga as a free agent on Tuesday after the goalkeeper’s contract at Chelsea expired.

Kepa was a $92.6 million world record signing for a goalkeeper when joining Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao in 2018 and went on to win the Champions League, Europa League and Club World Cup during his seven years at the club.

But he spent long periods of his time at Stamford Bridge as a back up and leaves after loans spells at Bournemouth and Real Madrid over the past two seasons.

“He brings a wealth of experience, which his teammates will benefit from, and he has a real hunger to win,” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said. “Kepa works hard and will elevate our levels.”

Kepa posted a goodbye message to Chelsea fans on social media before his move to Arsenal was announced.

“After seven unforgettable years the time has come to close a very special chapter in my life,” he posted. “Chelsea was my home, my family and the place where I grew both as a footballer and as a person.

“Now a new chapter begins, and I face it with the same passion and commitment as always.”

Arsenal did not say the length of the 30-year-old Kepa’s contract. He will compete with David Raya for the No.1 spot at London club, which has finished runner up in the Premier League in the last three years.

“I think we are so close to winning and, hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it,” Kepa said.

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James Robson is at https://twitter.com/jamesalanrobson

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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

James Robson, The Associated Press