Gary Neville has heavily criticised the role of Kepa Arrizabalaga during Chelsea’s Europa League victory over Arsenal.
The Sky Sports pundit insists he “can’t accept” a goalkeeper such as the Spaniard due to his belief that he transmits nervous energy throughout his defence.
Kepa has endured a turbulent debut season in England since becoming the world’s most expensive goalkeeper in a £71.6 million transfer last August.
But after a public dispute with Maurizio Sarri during the Carabao Cup final, Kepa’s performances have improved, notably when he played a key role to beat Eintracht Frankfurt in the semi-finals with two penalty saves.
But the 24-year-old failed to collect a number of deliveries in the early stages of the match in Baku, punching one cross to gift Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang a good chance, before the Gunners’ strong appeal for a penalty after a challenge with Alexandre Lacazette.
Neville was incensed while taking in the game, insisting he would not be happy with the former Athletic goalkeeper in his side.
“Nothing personal but I just can’t accept a keeper like Kepa,” Neville remarked.
“He would make every defence a nervous wreck. P.s probably man of the match now!”
Sarri meanwhile hopes to clarify his future in the coming weeks.
“I need to talk to the club and make sure I know what I can do for Chelsea and what Chelsea can do for me,” said Sarri.
“I love the Premier League and I’m lucky I’m at Chelsea but at the end of each season you have to sit down and talk.
“In my opinion, I deserve to stay at Chelsea but my opinion is not enough.”
