Thomas Tuchel tasked with tricky Kepa Arrizabalaga decision to avoid Carabao Cup final repeat

Chelsea is in the Carabao Cup final, where they will face Liverpool.

The last time Chelsea were in this space, they faced Manchester City in 2019. There were so many memories to take away from that match, and that begs the question, should Kepa Arrizabalaga start this weekend?

We all remember the events that transpired in the last league cup final that Kepa had started in. Defiance towards the manager. A penalty shootout where the Spaniard should have done better.

Despite being Chelsea’s starter throughout the competition this season, Thomas Tuchel will be tasked with making a decision that may affect his relationship with the number two goalkeeper.

According to Andy Dillon of the Sun, Kepa feels that he should start at the weekend, believing that Tuchel 'owes him' a start. The Club World Cup final came as a shock to many as Edouard Mendy was given the nod ahead of the Spaniard. Even though Kepa had a spotless display against Al Hilal in the semi-final, he was subject to the bench once Mendy had arrived from the African Cup of Nations.

I must admit it was a little harsh on the 27-year-old, but I guess sentiment cannot be a reason for Tuchel's choices in tough times. There's no telling who the Chelsea boss will start against Liverpool. He kept tight-lipped about the possible starting 11.

Tuchel was asked who he would opt for in goal in his pre-match conference. After informing the press that he would not tell them, he explained why either option could start. He also mentioned that he “cannot get sentimental” about it.

“It’s very easy to answer, Kepa absolutely deserves it. I cannot get sentimental about it. I have to do what is in the end, in my opinion, the very best solution for the team”.

Now I cannot make up rumours,