Premier League 2019-20: 5 underlying problems for Frank Lampard at Chelsea 

Kepa Arrizabalaga

Kepa's goalkeeping statistics have been a significant cause of worry for Chelsea and Frank Lampard

Tuesday’s display against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge was the latest in a long line of horrific performances by Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga this season. The Spaniard has been an evident weak-link in Frank Lampard’s side this term and perhaps the top-most cause of concern at the club. Against Arsenal on Tuesday night, Kepa looked nervous and edgy, often misplacing his goal-kicks and taking too long on the ball, hence inviting the opponent’s press.

The relatively-unknown 25-year-old was signed from Athletic Bilbao in the summer of 2018 in a mammoth €75m deal, making him the world’s most expensive goalkeeper in footballing history. The transfer was not entirely a well-thought decision, but the Chelsea hierarchy were forced to bring in a competent keeper following the ugly departure of Thibaut Courtois to Real Madrid.

16% - Chelsea have conceded goals from 16% of shots faced this season in the Premier League; no side have conceded a higher proportion in the competition during single season since detailed shot data was collected for the first time in 2003-04. Blue. pic.twitter.com/qT7R21Ptyb

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) January 22, 2020

Kepa’s on-field feud with former boss Maurizio Sarri made him a cult figure at the club last season but his performances in the Chelsea goal have since been equally worrying. The Spanish number two has the worst save percentage (55.4%) of any Premier League goalkeeper this term and in another incredible statistic, he ranks 127th in terms of save percentage out of the 132 keepers in Europe’s top seven leagues.

Chelsea have conceded more goals than eight of the top eleven teams in the Premier League this season and after what was a promising start to the campaign, the Europa League holders have now taken a dip in form with only four wins from their last 11 league games. If Chelsea wish to play Champions League football next season, Kepa will have to improve his athleticism and decision-making in goal. Otherwise, the club could replace him as early as this summer, with names such as Burnley's Nick Pope springing up in the transfer rumour mill.

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