Chelsea manager, Thomas Tuchel has come out to say that Edouard Mendy was happy to make way for Kepa Arrizabalaga ahead of yesterday’s penalty shootout. He recently revealed that there is proof that Kepa is better than Mendy when it comes to saving penalties, so the decision was a no brainer.
According to him, stats are available for his goalkeepers and he knows their strengths and weaknesses, therefore his decision cannot cause a rift in his squad.
Tuchel added that Kepa has the best percentage at saving penalties at Chelsea and he proved his worth vs Villarreal.
His words, “It was not spontaneous,”
“We talked about it with the goalkeepers after the first cup game against Barnsley [in the FA Cup last season]. We had some statistics. We were well prepared.”
“Kepa has the best percentage at saving penalties, the analysing guys and goalkeeping coaches showed me the data. We spoke to the players that this could happen when we play in knockout games. It’s fantastic how Edouard accepted it.”
“There is proof that Kepa is better in this discipline. They’re team players. Edouard does not show the pride to not step off the field. He was happy to do it for the team and take this for the team.”
Mendy said, “I’m happy because we won,”
“I knew since last year that if Kepa came on the pitch he would help the team. It’s a team effort. We play for Chelsea and for success. We did this today together.”
Kepa added: “It’s not a typical situation but we arrived to penalties after Edouard did a fantastic job. Finally we won and we are so happy. I was ready because I knew this could happen. I tried to be ready mentally and physically.”
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