Summer signing made Arsenal fans realise something ‘wild’ during Brighton win

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Arsenal fans were all saying the same thing about one of Mikel Arteta’s summer signings during the Gunners’ win over Brighton.

Goals from Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri sealed Arsenal’s spot in the final eight of the Carabao Cup. 

Mikel Arteta described the evening as ‘beautiful’, handing full first-team debuts to academy stars Max Dowman and Andre Harriman-Annous.

The two teenagers weren’t the only rarely-seen players on show, as for only the second time this season, Kepa Arrizabalaga featured.

Arteta hailed Kepa’s behaviour behind the scenes before the match and after, the Arsenal manager would’ve been even more impressed.

• READ MORE: What Gabriel Magalhaes did in the 95th minute vs Brighton says everything about Arsenal right now

Arsenal fans hail Kepa Arrizabalaga after Brighton win

For a player who hadn’t featured for Arsenal for a month, Kepa was very impressive against Brighton, managing to keep a clean sheet despite the visitors’ best efforts to score.

On social media, there was a lot of talk about the goalkeeper during the match, as Arsenal fans emphasised the importance of having a player of his quality as a back-up to David Raya.

“Having a solid #2 GK is nice. Former Chels yeah but it was £5m. We used to have guys like Runarsson, Matt Turner and Neto,” one supporter said. 

Many Arsenal fans showed their gratitude for Andrea Berta’s work in the summer to sign Kepa for just £5m, recognising the difference his presence makes.

“Having Kepa as our second Goalie is wild,” as another agreed, “We’re so lucky to have Kepa for these games.”

Edu Gaspar’s capture of Neto was a catastrophe last season, as not only was the Brazilian a considerable level below Raya, but he was also cup-tied. 

Seeing a player of Kepa’s quality between the sticks in the Carabao Cup was something Arsenal fans appreciated after several years of instability in the position.

“Been very impressed with Kepa £5m is great business.”

“Kepa has been such a steal for that price as a backup goalie. So reassuring to know that we’ve got someone so competent if Raya gets injured…”

Another fan echoed how good the transfer decision was from Berta, “Fair to say Kepa is some back up goalkeeper. Berta played a blinder.”

Others focused solely on the level of performance the 31-year-old showcased against Brighton.

“Kepa showing his experience. Good game from him so far.”

“I forgot to praise Kepa btw. Wonderful performance.”

Kepa’s role in Arsenal’s win over Brighton

Arsenal made history against Brighton, becoming the first English team to ever play six games across three different competitions in one month and not concede a goal.

Kepa certainly played his part in the win, as Brighton did all they could to rain on Arsenal’s clean sheet parade.

The Spaniard made six saves during the contest, having an answer for Brighton’s efforts to find the back of the net.

Arteta will be absolutely delighted with the level of performance that the shot-stopper showed, maintaining the impeccable run of form Arsenal are on right now.