New Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is willing to start next season with Kepa Arrizabalaga as his No1. goalkeeper - despite being warned that he isn't "physically or mentally strong enough."
A resurgent campaign from Kepa, 28, was one of the few positives for Chelsea last season, as the Blues slumped to a humiliating 12th-placed finish in the Premier League. Pochettino doesn't officially succeed interim boss Frank Lampard until July 1, but he's well on with establishing who he wants in his squad.
The former Tottenham manager has faith in Kepa, believing that the Spain international can go to the 'next level' by working alongside him and trusted goalkeeping coach Toni Jimenez, according to the Evening Standard. Pochettino's decision has seen Chelsea abandon their pursuit of a new first-choice goalkeeper, with current backup Edouard Mendy the one set to be replaced as he's close to sealing a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia.
