The world's most expensive goalkeeper 'revives' form

From a suspected star, Kepa has now become one of the notable goalkeepers in the Premier League.

The 2023/24 season was not a success for Kepa as he played on loan at Real Madrid. Despite having the opportunity at a big club, the 28-year-old goalkeeper only made 19 appearances in all competitions and could not hold down a regular place at the Bernabeu.

After a challenging season, Kepa returned to Chelsea hoping to regain his form, but he was sent out on loan to Bournemouth again.

Kepa's turning point

It was here, under the guidance of coach Andoni Iraola, that Kepa had an impressive "revival". After a short time, the Spanish goalkeeper proved his worth and became a key factor for Bournemouth. With 22 appearances in the Premier League this season, Kepa showed excellent form, helping the team play stably and achieve positive results.

One of Kepa’s most memorable moments of the season was when he was named the Premier League’s ‘Save of the Month’ for March, after his superb saves against Wolverhampton. This was a testament to the remarkable recovery of Kepa, who has not only found his best form but also won individual awards. His world-class saves have helped Bournemouth overcome many challenges and assert their position in the English top flight.

Speaking to Dazn's Premier Corner by Guinness 0.0, Kepa admitted that his decision to join Bournemouth was fuelled by a phone call from Iraola. "The information about Iraola was very good and his call gave me the determination to move on," the Spaniard said. "I needed to enjoy football again, feel important and have the chance to play every weekend. Being here has helped me do that and has been key to finding the passion I need as a player."

It was this call that helped Kepa regain his true footballing sense, no longer confined to a reserve role. This change not only helped him regain his form but also demonstrated the strong influence of Spanish coaches in the Premier League.

Kepa has had an impressive "revival" at Bournemouth.

Kepa also added: "You can clearly see the difference when facing teams led by Spanish coaches, like Mikel Arteta or Pep Guardiola. Compared to the traditional English football style, they bring a completely different approach."

Despite only playing one season at Real Madrid, Kepa still considers it a great experience. He won major titles such as La Liga and the Champions League, but also faced many challenges, from injuries to the inability to maintain consistent performance.

However, Kepa has always felt important to Carlo Ancelotti's side, and winning two major trophies in one season was an experience he will never forget. "Even though it was just one year, I enjoyed every moment. I won La Liga and the Champions League. Of course, I had my ups and downs. I was a starter, then I got injured and played less, but I still felt important to the team," Kepa said.

Promising future at Chelsea and Bournemouth

With a contract at Chelsea until 2026, Kepa now faces important decisions about his future. His excellent performances at Bournemouth could help him create his own opportunities, with big clubs keeping a close eye on top goalkeepers.

With a contract running until 2026 with Chelsea, Kepa now faces important choices about his future.

While Chelsea may need him back in the future, his impressive Premier League performances will open up new opportunities for the goalkeeper. Kepa has now not only found his form but also proved that the right decisions, like Iraola’s call-up, can completely change a player’s career.

From a goalkeeper who was once expected to become a hero for Chelsea, Kepa has now found himself and become a shining star in the Premier League. This season has not only been a personal recovery for him, but also a testament to the right decisions and opportunities that life has to offer to every player. Kepa proves that sometimes, a timely call can change a player's entire career.

Despite his past challenges, Kepa is now one of the top goalkeepers in the Premier League, and his journey is still very long, with many new opportunities opening up ahead.

Source: https://znews.vn/thu-mon-dat-gia-nhat-the-gioi-hoi-sinh-phong-do-post1541334.html