Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy has said that he was not astonished by what Kepa Arrizabalaga did while he was on International duty at the last Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON.
The former Rennes shot-stopper represented his country, the Senegal national team at the 33rd edition of AFCON held in Cameroon from January to early February.
Meanwhile, his side lifted the trophy to become the first-time AFCON winner.
During the period Mendy was away, the ex-Athletic Bilbao goalie step into his shoes for the Blues.
Kepa was is in his best behavior and there were even a few calls that he should remain in goal.
In any event, the Best FIFA Goalkeeper of 2021, Mendy had to return to goal for Thomas Tuchel’s side following his return from the African competition.
The 29-year-old goalie revealed that he has a smooth relationship with Kepa in spite of their battle for the number one jersey at the Stamford Bridge.
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Mendy made the disclosure while speaking during a pre-match press conference ahead of the side’s Champions League round of 16 first-leg tie with the French League One side, Lille on Tuesday night.
Mendy said: “My relationship with Kepa is good since I came here. We have a good relationship on and off the pitch.”
“He did really well when I was at AFCON, but it didn’t surprise me because I saw him every day at training. I was super happy for him because he deserves it.”
He added: “When you play for Chelsea, you’ve competition in every position, so you have to give your best and play at your highest level to be in the team at the weekend.”
