Tuchel confirms Eduoard Mendy still Chelsea No.1 after handing Kepa a rare start

Thomas Tuchel insisted that new summer arrival Eduoard Mendy is still Chelsea’s first choice keeper despite starting Kepa against Newcastle. The Spanish goalkeeper retained his place from the FA Cup tie and was seen in goal against Newcastle.

Kepa Arrizabalaga’s career at Chelsea was considered over after the arrival Mendy from France. Kepa’s disappointing performances urged Frank Lampard asking for a new goalkeeper and Mendy was brought this summer.

Kepa has kept 2 consecutive clean sheets

However, Chelsea’s new manager is keen on giving another chance to the goalkeeper to rediscover himself at the club. Kepa looked assured in goal against Barnsley which might have prompted the German coach to give him more game time in the Premier league.

Kepa has now kept 2 consecutive clean sheets under Tuchel and looks to have found some form. However, the Chelsea boss was quick to suggest that Mendy was still the No.1 choice for him and this was a rest for the Senegalese international looking ahead of a cluster of games.   

‘Edouard is the No 1 and that is clear. This was clear before the game and it stays like this. 

‘I am very happy Kepa continued with a second clean sheet in a row, to let him build up his rhythm and confidence. Edou will be in goal from now on because he recovered physically and mentally.’ 

Gary Nevill, who was on television duty was surprised at the decision to start Kepa ahead of Mendy.

‘I think it is big. I thought we saw the last of him. But managers when they come in, they believe they can improve players, particularly good managers. 

‘He thinks he can get a tune in Kepa. But he looked well short of what a top goalie needs to be and we thought his time was over.

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