Finally deciding to reject the offer from Madrid's "Real," Bilbao's "Athletic" goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga revealed that he seriously considered this possibility this winter.
The 23-year-old footballer was heavily linked with a move to the "royal" club, but the whole story ended with him signing a seven-and-a-half-year contract with "Athletic."
The main reason for this decision, as the Spaniard mentioned, was his future plans.
"It was a time of deep reflection, and the decision was one that would have a huge impact on the direction of my sports career," Kepa told "Cadena Ser."
"Finally, after consulting with family and close friends, I chose to stay. I am happy with this ending and look forward to representing the club for the next eight years."
In the Bilbao team, Kepa has a guaranteed starting goalkeeper position, while in "Real" he would have to compete with Keylor Navas for that role. It is precisely the regular playing time that should secure him a ticket to the upcoming World Cup in the summer.
