New Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has claimed that Alvaro Morata and Cesar Azpilicueta have both helped him settle into life in west London following his summer move.
With Morata previously the club’s record transfer following his move from Real Madrid last July, Kepa surpassed his new teammate after joining from Athletic Bilbao for £71.6million last month.
While the Blues have yet to see him at the top of his game, the shot-stopper has played a big role in helping Maurizio Sarri’s side start off the new campaign with four successive wins in the league.
Speaking to Spanish publication AS during the international break, the 23-year-old revealed that his Spanish compatriots have played a big part in helping him settle into his new surroundings so quickly.
He said: “It is important that there were teammates in the team that I already knew before: Azpilicueta, Morata.
“With their help it is easier because entering a new changing room where you already know people does everything faster.”
Given that Azpilcueta spoke with Morata prior to his move to the club last season, as well as helping him settle in the capital, the striker is using his own experience from 12 months ago to help Kepa.
Previously linked with a big-money move to Real Madrid and Juventus, the goalkeeper explained why he decided on a move to Stamford Bridge.
“It is a great club, which in recent years has won the Champions League, Europa League and the Premier League,” added the highly-rated Spaniard.
“It’s a team with great players. It was an important bet and I am happy to take this step, I want to enjoy it.
“I started the pre-season with Bilbao and it was several weeks, Chelsea showed their interest.
“There were talks and everything was carried out.
“I’m happy for all the effort that Chelsea has made because it’s not easy to pay those amounts and I’m looking forward to returning it on the field.”