What was the response from both sides after Chelsea punished Kepa?
The incident of Kepa refusing to be substituted continued to escalate, and Chelsea finally made a penalty decision the next day: Kepa apologized + fined.
Chelsea officials issued a statement on their official website, announcing that Kepa will be fined one week's salary and will donate the funds to the Chelsea Charity Fund. In addition, Kepa also publicly apologized.
Kepa apologized and said: "Yesterday, I was very happy to participate in my first cup final with Chelsea, and I am also very proud of the team's performance. I thought a lot about yesterday's incident. Although there was a misunderstanding, if I think about it carefully, I made a big mistake in the way I handled this matter."
"Today, I want to take the time to express my gratitude to coach and Willy (Kaba). "I apologized to my teammates and the club, and I would like to apologize to the fans and accept any punishment the club deems appropriate."
Chelsea coach Sarri also issued a statement: "Kepa and I have spoken about this matter and it was a pleasant conversation. There was a misunderstanding yesterday, but he has now realized it. He made a big mistake in the way he behaved. He has apologized to me, his teammates and the club. If the club wants to punish him according to the rules, it is up to the club. But for me, the matter is over. ”
“The whole team is performing very positively now. It’s a pity that this incident has cast a shadow on us in this fiercely competitive final. Now everyone has to focus. We have to put all this behind us in the next game.