Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri says that extraordinary stand-off with keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga was a "misunderstanding".
The young Spaniard appeared to suffer a muscular problem on two occasions in extra-time of EFL Cup Final against Manchester City, dropping to the floor each time, and that caused Sarri to decide that he should bring on Caballero.
Kepa then ignored his coach by refusing to come off, which led to Sarri - and the Chelsea coaching staff - looking infuriated as their player had showed a complete lack of respect.
"I misunderstood the problem and only realised the situation when the doctor arrived at the bench," says Sarri.
"It was a big misunderstanding because I understood the keeper had cramp and was unable to go to the penalties. But it was not cramp and could go to the penalties."
He also says the Spaniard will not be disciplined by the club.
'No, I have to talk with him, but only to clarify, because now I have understood very well the situation.
On why he walked off towards the tunnel, he says: "I needed to return to be quiet. He [Kepa] understood that I asked for a change for his physical problem and he said I haven't a physical problem. And he was right.
"I realised after when the doctor arrived. I have talked to him [Kepa] but only to clarify because now I have understand the situation."
On whether he has his squad's backing, Sarri added: 'After this match I have to say that I’m sure. Because they played exactly what I asked. Today I am proud of my players... I am really very happy.
'I think in the last 3 matches we are improving, we have improved a lot. Today we showed to everyone that we could become a very solid team, because we conceded nothing to the opponents, against Man City that is not easy.'
VishwasJr
463
Breaking: Reports claim that Kepa is still on the field. He just won’t go home 😂
piybdklsuy
68
I don't understand some of you people.. Sarri is a coach, he Is now defending Kepa because he doesn't want a feud between him and his players.. but to be true, you can never argue with ur coach if he wants to take you out.. you can be angry and kick all the chairs outside the pitch for all I care, but to refuse to be taken out in that manner shows a lack of disrespect for all the management and the club too... if you support Chelsea and still blames Sarri for the lost in penalties due to the fact that they had a feud With Kepa "you have a problem too" Kepa is so unprofessional mxm