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Kepa: I join Real Madrid at my peak; I've spoken to Courtois

Kepa Arrizabalaga says he's joined Real Madrid at the peak of his career.

The Chelsea goalkeeper has signed for Real on a season-long loan.

He said at Tuesday's presentation: "I'm coming here more mature and in one of the best periods of my sporting career after a great year. I'm ready for the challenge. I can assure you that I'll never be short of commitment and hard work. It's been an intense few days, but when I had the opportunity to join Real Madrid, I was sure of everything.

"You can't predict what's going to happen in football and we don't know what's about to happen tomorrow. Football is football and it's ever-changing. I'm focused at all times, wherever I am, keeping my senses and giving 100 per cent. I'm now ready to give 100 per cent for Real Madrid.

"It was a very easy decision. I had other proposals from big clubs, but when I was told that I had this opportunity it was all quite quick and easy. I got a call after training a couple of days ago and it all started. Everything went very quickly from then on. The first person I told was my wife. I was with her and we were very happy.

"I chose 25 because 1 and 13 were taken by (Thibaut) Courtois and (Andriy) Lunin. I'm happy to wear 25. I don't want to compare. I'm here to forge my own path and make my own name. What I do or don't do will be down to my name, not because of comparisons with other goalkeepers.

"I've spoken to Courtois and he's going through the worst thing in football: injuries. I would like to send him a lot of strength, courage and the very best of recoveries. Hopefully he will be back on the pitch soon."

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