Kepa Arrizabalaga Fined for Substitution Bust-Up

Chelsea goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, has been fined a week’s wages after refusing to be substituted during the Carabao Cup final last Sunday, 24 February.

During the Blues’ clash with Manchester City, the 24-year-old Spaniard defied coach Maurizio Sarri’s attempts to substitute him for Willy Caballero ahead of the penalty shootout. This resulted in Sarri storming down the tunnel before returning to the pitch.

Manchester City went on to beat Chelsea 4-3 on penalties.

In a statement posted on the club’s website, Arrizabalaga announced the fine, which will be donated to the Chelsea Foundation. He also apologised to Sarri, Caballero and his team-mates for his actions.

The goalkeeper added: “Now I want to offer the same apology to the fans. I will learn from this episode, and will accept any punishment or discipline the club decides is appropriate.”

In a simultaneously published statement, Sarri said: “It is up to the club if they want to discipline [Arrizabalaga] … but for me, this matter is now closed.”

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