In a quickfire exchange on Radioestadio’s TikTok segment, Unai Simon was asked to compare several top goalkeepers. When prompted to choose between Kepa Arrizabalaga and David de Gea, Simon replied, “Kepa. I’m setting the bar very high for Kepa, just so you know.” For a comparison with Gianluigi Buffon, Simon stated, “I’m going to stick with… I’m going to stick with Kepa, believe it or not.” When asked to pick between Kepa and Thibaut Courtois, he chose Courtois.
Choosing Kepa over De Gea is notable, and selecting him over Buffon is particularly striking given Buffon’s legendary status. It’s worth noting that Simon and Kepa came through Athletic Bilbao’s academy systems, with Kepa two years ahead of Simon. Simon eventually became Bilbao’s first-choice goalkeeper after Kepa left for the Premier League, and the two have also been Spain teammates over the years. The relationship between the two is likely close, and Simon may have viewed Kepa as a role model throughout much of his career.
Kepa Arrizabalaga’s Future at Arsenal
Kepa joined Arsenal from Chelsea last summer and has served as a reliable second-choice option, though a costly error in the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City remains a talking point. When Arsenal signed him, a release clause was added that allows him to leave if the club recoups the £5 million paid for his transfer.
Kepa has reportedly enjoyed his time with the club, but could be swayed elsewhere if an attractive offer comes along. Inter Milan has shown interest, but any potential move would likely have him joining as a backup goalkeeper in Serie A, which might favor staying in the Premier League with Arsenal.
Internationally, he has not featured for Spain since 2023 and missed out on the World Cup squad to fellow Spain teammates who were competing for places. In the same national-team context, while goalkeeper David Raya enjoyed an outstanding season with Arsenal, he remains behind Simon in the pecking order for Spain, who started the opener against Cape Verde in a goalless draw. Martin Zubimendi was not part of the squad in that match, while Mikel Merino did appear as a substitute later in the game.
