Kepa hopes “legendary” Real Madrid will keep him after loan from Chelsea

Kepa Arrizabalaga has set sights on a permanent stay at Real Madrid after completing his loan move from Chelsea on Tuesday, August 15.

The Spain international joins Madrid on a short-term deal until the end of the 2023/24 season from Premier League side Chelsea.

Los Blancos opted for the loan signing of the shot-stopper following the Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury to Thibaut Courtois prior to the start of the new season, suffering the setback in training.

However, Kepa says he would want to stay beyond just the loan period.

“Do I want Madrid to keep me? Hopefully. Today is the first day of my loan. We have time, we’ll see,” he said during his presentation.

“Hopefully, with my performance, I can make that happen. This club is legendary.”

The former Athletic Bilbao star was close to joining Madrid in 2018 but then manager Zinedine Zidane blocked the move despite an agreement between the two clubs.

And Kepa says he has that behind him.

“Did I think the Madrid train was going to pass again? Football can’t be predicted, it’s very changing. I focus at every moment, on having the five senses wherever I am and giving 100%.

“I’m ready to give it for Real Madrid. That’s when it had to be.”

Kepa could make his debut for the club in their next league game against Almeria this weekend.