The Blues manager has also issued a follow-up statement after the Spaniard's refusal to be substituted in the Carabao Cup final.

Despite initial reports that Kepa Arrizabalaga would go unpunished for his actions in the Carabao Cup final, Chelsea has now come out and slapped the goalkeeper with a fine. The Spaniard dominated the headlines on that night, but for all the wrong reasons, after publicly defying his manager's command.

Maurizio Sarri made an attempt to substitute the former Athletic Club shot-stopper under the assumption that he was unfit to continue, as the goalkeeper twice complained of a cramp. However, the 24-year-old refused to come off despite seeing his number go up in what turned into an ugly scene, leaving the gaffer infuriated.

The Italian nearly left the stadium in outrage but later tried to downplay the whole incident as a "misunderstanding". Kepa initially only reiterated that his intention was not to disrespect the manager and disregard his authority shortly after the defeat, but the Spaniard has now come out and issued a full apology.

"I have thought a lot more about yesterday’s events. Although there was a misunderstanding, on reflection, I made a big mistake with how I handled the situation," the summer signing said in an official statement on the Blues' website.

"I wanted to take the time today to apologize fully and in person to the coach, to Willy, my team-mates and to the club. I have done this and now I want to offer the same apology to the fans. I will learn from this episode and will accept any punishment or discipline the club decides is appropriate."

The London giant will fine him one week's wages, with the club donating that amount to the Chelsea Foundation. Sarri has stated that the issue is now behind them after his apology, which means Kepa could be back in goal for their upcoming London Derby against Tottenham on Wednesday.

 

Match details, result and original broadcast info

Chelsea 2 - 0 Tottenham Hotspur

February 27, 2019 3:00pmStamford Bridge (London)

This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.

Live TV coverage and streaming in United States

fuboTV
nbcsports.com
NBC Sports App
UNIVERSO
UNIVERSO NOW
Telemundo Deportes En Vivo
The 5th Stand
SiriusXM FC
TalkSport International
SpursPlay