Is Kepa good enough to be Arsenal’s number 2?

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·6 August 2026

Is Kepa good enough to be Arsenal’s number 2?

Kepa Arrizabalaga joined Arsenal last summer and served as the club’s second-choice goalkeeper during the 2025/2026 season as they won the league.

However, there is an argument that Arsenal may not have achieved the same success had he been the first-choice goalkeeper at the Emirates. Questions have remained over his consistency, with errors continuing to affect perceptions of his performances.

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The Spaniard came under scrutiny in the Carabao Cup final, where his mistake proved costly as it paved the way for Arsenal to lose the trophy.

Supporters would have hoped that he had improved over the summer break, while the arrival of Illan Meslier was also expected to provide greater competition for places.

Concerns After Real Betis Display

Against Real Betis, Kepa once again delivered a performance that is likely to raise concerns about whether he is suitable to remain Arsenal’s second-choice goalkeeper.

As reported by The Daily Mail, his aimless charging out led to Real Betis scoring their first goal of the game, and he also arguably could have done better with the visitors’ other two goals.

Those moments have increased scrutiny of his performances and are likely to prompt further discussion over his position within the squad as the new campaign approaches.

Competition for the Goalkeeping Position

Kepa has made a difficult start and has once again found himself under pressure following his display against Real Betis.

The arrival of Meslier has strengthened Arsenal’s goalkeeping options and increased competition within the squad. The club will expect all of their goalkeepers to perform consistently in order to earn opportunities throughout the campaign.

If Kepa is unable to improve his performances in the coming matches, Meslier could move ahead of him in the pecking order. Arsenal now have greater depth in the goalkeeping department, and maintaining high standards will be essential for every player competing for a place in the team.

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