Arsenal Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga pulled off an impressive save against Maxence Lacroix in the penalty shootout to send the Gunners to the Semi final of the competition.
This was Arrizabalaga third game for Arsenal since joining back in the summer from Chelsea. Despite being brought from Chelsea, Kepa had been out on loan for the previous two seasons. First at Real Madrid and then at Bournemouth. The Spanish keeper is yet to play in the Premier League for the Gunners.
It was a close game, both sides scoring late on. At first it seemed Arsenal had won it in the 80th minute. Then a injury time leveler from Marc Guehi sent the game to penalties.
Much was said about Kepa when he joined the Blues back in 2018 for a record breaking fee of £80 Million. The young spanish keeper was seen as a long term goalkeeping solution for Chelsea and impressed in early appearances.
Later though, criticism began for what was seen as poor shot stopping skills. He eventually fell down the pecking order at Chelsea becoming second choice behind Senegal's Edouard Mendy. He did come back into the side for twentynine league appearances in the 2022/23 season.
The following season was his first loan spell, joining Real Madrid, again to be a second choice. He was involved with both Chelsea's and Real Madrid Champions League campaigns which they won. Chelsea's in 2021 and Real Madrid's in 2024.
With this win Arsenal will play london Rivals Chelsea in the next round. If Arteta continues to pick Kepa in the cup it will be a Reunion for the Spaniard.
Like many players who jump to local rivals, there will be a hostility towards the keeper. It will be crucial for Arsenal that Kepa does not let the pressure get to him and seizes the opportunity to prove himself against his former team.
The game will be across two legs, the first at Stamford Bridge on January 14th. The Gunners will then host Chelsea at the Emirates on the 3rd of February.
