Kepa wants to leave Arsenal

The Basque goalkeeper needs to regain the role as a starter, which is practically impossible at the Emirates Stadium

Héctor Andreu | 15 Jul 2026 | 10.38
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Kepa wants to regain importance between the goalposts, but at Arsenal, this is impossible / Marca
Kepa wants to regain importance between the goalposts, but at Arsenal, this is impossible / Marca

Premier League
1 X 2
Arsenal Coventry
21/08/26 21:00:00
1.17 7.50 13.00

Kepa Arrizabalaga is facing one of the most important summers of his career. After winning the Premier League in his first season as a new signing for Arsenal, the Spanish goalkeeper is now confronted with a significant dilemma: whether to continue in a winning project as David Raya's backup or to seek a new destination that guarantees him a starting position. The Spanish international has a contract until 2028, but he does not rule out a change before the transfer window closes.

The Bilbao-born goalkeeper arrived at the Emirates Stadium after an outstanding season at Bournemouth, where he regained his best form under the guidance of Andoni Iraola. His performance convinced the London club, which paid 6 million euros to Chelsea for his services. However, the presence of David Raya significantly limited his playing time during the 2025-26 season.

Kepa Arrizabalaga wants more playing time away from the bench

As confirmed by AS, despite the collective success, the goalkeeper's individual situation is not entirely satisfactory. During the past season, he played 12 official matches across all competitions, amassing just over 1,000 minutes of game time, a far cry from the expectations he had upon his arrival in North London.

The goal for Kepa Arrizabalaga is to regain the consistency he enjoyed at Bournemouth. At 31 years old, he believes he is still in the peak of his career and wants to continue competing at the highest level, especially aiming to remain part of the Spanish national team setup.

This ambition does not conflict with the club. Both the player and the club maintain an excellent relationship, but the goalkeeper's desire is to feel indispensable once again in goal.

David Raya remains Mikel Arteta's choice

The sporting reality is clear. Mikel Arteta sees David Raya as the team's number one goalkeeper and has no plans to change that hierarchy for the upcoming season.

The Basque coach highly values Kepa Arrizabalaga's work, particularly for the competition he brings in training and his experience in big matches. However, the trust placed in Raya remains unwavering.

The recent addition of Illan Meslier as the third goalkeeper does not change the scenario either. The Frenchman is there to provide depth, while the Bilbao native will continue to be the primary alternative in the absence of the Spanish international.

Arsenal does not close the door to negotiation

In Arsenal's offices, there is no intention to force the goalkeeper to stay if he requests to leave. The sports management fully understands his position and would be willing to consider a solution beneficial for both parties.

However, there have been significant changes in the contractual situation. When the goalkeeper signed his contract, there was a £5 million release clause, equivalent to around 6 million euros, that allowed for an automatic exit if another club matched that figure.

That clause has now expired. This means that any interested club will need to negotiate directly with Arsenal, and the player himself would also have to reach an economic agreement with the London club to facilitate a potential separation.

Kepa, willing to leave Arsenal

The Premier League remains an option

His performance during his loan spell at Bournemouth keeps the Spanish international's status within the Premier League intact. Several clubs value his experience, leadership, and ability to compete at the highest level.

In addition to his recent Premier League triumph, Kepa Arrizabalaga boasts a Champions League victory with Chelsea and another achieved during his time at Real Madrid, a record that continues to attract interest from European aspirants.

Currently, there are no official offers, but preliminary discussions have been held with various clubs monitoring the evolution of his contractual situation.

The market will decide Kepa Arrizabalaga's future

The World Cup has slowed down many planned operations for this summer, and the goalkeeper's case is no exception. Many sports administrations are waiting until the end of the tournament before accelerating goalkeeper-related moves.

In the meantime, Mikel Arteta continues to view him as an important player in the squad, but he is aware that the desire for more playing time could weigh heavily in the goalkeeper's decision.

All signs point to the upcoming weeks being crucial. If a project emerges that can offer him a starting role and a mutually satisfactory agreement, Kepa Arrizabalaga could bring his Arsenal tenure to a close just a year after joining. Otherwise, he will continue to defend the goal for the reigning Premier League champions, awaiting another opportunity to prove he still has a lot to offer in football.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Kepa quiere irse del Arsenal