Chelsea regular Edouard Mendy opens up on his relationship with Kepa Arrizabalaga
Speaking to El Match TV during the international break (h/t Metro), Edouard Mendy has weighed in on his relationship with Chelsea teammate Kepa Arrizabalaga. He was signed to replace Arrizabalaga, who flattered to deceive following his high profile move to Stamford Bridge.
The Blues signed the Spaniard on a world record fee of £71m but have had to endure a frustrating time with him in goal. Mendy was brought in from Stade Rennes as a replacement and instantly established himself as the starting goalkeeper. As a result, he has pushed the 27-year-old to the bench and has helped his club to become contenders in major competitions.
The 29-year-old Senegalese international played a role in helping Thomas Tuchel’s side win the Champions League last season and has dropped multiple match-winning performances this term for the Premier League table-toppers. His output helped the club have the best defence in the league, with just four goals conceded in 11 games.
Despite coming in and taking his position, Mendy admits that he shares a good relationship with Kepa. The duo appears to have a competitive set-up between them.
“My relationship with Kepa is very good, as is my relationship with Marcus [Bettinelli], the third goalkeeper at Chelsea. We compete with interest.”
Mendy goes on to add that the competition is for the team’s benefit. Competitions are won as a unit and the goalkeeper is but one cog in the machine.
“The most important thing is that the competition between the players is for the benefit of the team. The titles are for the club and not for the player.”
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The Senegal ace is in contention to be the starter against Leicester City on Saturday as he and his team look to maintain their lead ahead of the chasing pack. The English club will bank on his abilities to help them as they gear up for the second half of the season.