Chelsea outcast could be handed shock lifeline as talks with Enzo Maresca planned

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga could be handed a surprise lifeline at the club by new manager Enzo Maresca, it has been reported.

The Spain international spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Real Madrid after Thibaut Courtois suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Arrizabalaga was Real's number one goalkeeper for the first part of the season, before manager Carlo Ancelotti replaced him with Andriy Lunin.

The goalkeeper fell to third choice once Courtois made his successful return from injury and subsequently started the 2-0 Champions League final win over Borussia Dortmund last week.

Given Chelsea signed Robert Sanchez and Djordje Petrovic last summer - with Marcus Bettinelli as third choice - Arrizabalaga's days at Stamford Bridge appeared to be numbered upon the arrival of Maresca.

The Blues have also been linked with the signing of James Trafford from recently-relegated Burnley.

But according to The Sun, Maresca will plan talks with the Spaniard in order to decide on his future once and for all - with a potential stay at Stamford Bridge not off the table.

However, it is claimed that Kepa would want 'guaranteed game time' if he was to remain in London, amid reported interest from Real in making a permanent move for the goalkeeper if Lunin leaves.

A source told The Sun: "The uncertainty over Chelsea's next manager has put everything on hold for a couple of weeks.

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"Kepa also wanted to make the most of winning La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup and, of course, the Champions League.

"He will need to talk to Maresca and see what the future holds. He would be happy in Madrid or in London."

If Kepa does stay at Stamford Bridge, he may have to get used to a new strict training ground menu under Maresca.

The Times claim that several food items could be cut, with Maresca's fitness coach Marcos Alvarez having banned salt and pepper, fruit juice, sauce and cake while he was a part of Juande Ramos' coaching staff at Tottenham.