Kepa finding joy in football again, saves Haaland penalty

03/30/2025 08:59 PM

...even if Manchester City would come back to win in the FA Cup quarterfinals

The final four of this year's FA Cup is set, and it's a fun-looking field of teams not too often seen at this stage of the competition — except for Manchester City, who came back from a goal down against AFC Bournemouth to advance to semifinals yet again.

And that's despite Kepa Arrizabalaga showing off his penalty-saving chops once again, this time denying none other than Erling Haaland from the spot. (Haaland would eventually get his goal, before leaving with an ankle injury; he was later spotted leaving the stadium in a boot and on crutches.)

Despite the disappointment, it was yet another impactful moment for Kepa with Cherries, where's he's found joy in football once again, after not playing much at Chelsea or while on loan at Real Madrid. He recently reflected on the benefits of his decision to (at least temporarily) join Bournemouth this season.

"I had very good references and [Andoni Iraola's] call helped me take the step. I needed to enjoy football again, feel important, and have the opportunity to play every weekend. Being here has allowed me to do that and has been key to rediscovering the enthusiasm you seek as a footballer."

-Kepa Arrizabalaga; source: Mundo Deportivo via Sport Witness

Kepa extended his contract at Chelsea by a year before heading out, and that deal reportedly includes a £5m (€6m) release clause. Given his performances this season, that might just be a bargain. Bournemouth are unsurprisingly keen, but Real Madrid are still in the picture as well, with Andriy Lunin expected to look for opportunities elsewhere. Would Kepa mind being just a backup to Thibaut Courtois, or would he choose to remain a starter for the Cherries?

For once, transfer opportunities may not be too hard to find for Kepa this summer.