Chelsea supporters on social media absolutely adored the interaction between Thomas Tuchel and Kepa Arrizabalaga yesterday.
Kepa earned a rare start on Sunday, thrown into the deep end against Tottenham Hotspur.
Deputising for no.1 Edouard Mendy, the Spaniard needed a strong performance to justify his call-up.
As it panned out, the world’s most expensive goalkeeper had very little to keep him busy, as Spurs rarely troubled his net.
Thanks to Tottenham’s limp second-half effort and Chelsea’s eventual control over proceedings, Kepa kept a clean sheet in the capital.
At the final whistle, Tuchel was captured heading straight for the ‘keeper to congratulate his latest shut-out.
Followers of the Blues had to wipe a tear of joy from their eyes after witnessing such a heart-warming moment.
Here’s how they reacted on Twitter:
Keeping Kepa happy content
One of the standout themes of Tuchel’s rein is the harmony he’s managed to establish in the squad.
Keeping the likes of Kepa- who has been resigned to a backup role- happy ensures a feel-good factor around the camp.
It also certifies the confidence in players who are on the periphery, aware they will get a chance at some stage.
Of course, some might argue this theory – Callum Hudson-Odoi and Tammy Abraham for example- but in general, the atmosphere around Chelsea is extremely positive.
From Kepa’s standpoint, to have the backing of your manager must be a magical feeling.
Frank Lampard lost faith in the 26-year-old, which is why Mendy was signed in the first place.
Yet, with Tuchel’s trust in his corner, the former Atletico Bilboa man looks reformed.
He proved in the UEFA Super Cup final that he can stand in and shine when required.
