Chelsea's Kepa fined, calls disobedience 'a big mistake'

Chelsea have slapped shot-stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga with a one-week wage fine for refusing to come off during Sunday's League Cup final defeat to Manchester City.

Blues boss Maurizio Sarri was furious when Kepa denied a substitution for spot-kick specialist Willy Caballero after requiring treatment in the closing stages of extra-time at Wembley Stadium.

"Although there was a misunderstanding, on reflection, I made a big mistake with how I handled the situation. I wanted to take the time today to apologize fully and in person to the coach, to Willy, my teammates and to the club," Kepa said in a statement the club released on Monday.

Caballero appeared set to come on for the latter stages and ensuing penalties at Sarri's command, only for Kepa to deny the manager's instructions. A visibly livid Sarri stormed down the tunnel before returning to the touchline, repeatedly motioning for Kepa to honor his request.

Sarri weighed in on the situation, adding, "Kepa and I have spoken about the incident. It was a good conversation. There was a misunderstanding yesterday but he realizes he made a big mistake in the way he reacted.

"He has apologized to me, his teammates and the club. It is up to the club if they want to discipline him according to the club rules, but for me this matter is now closed," Sarri continued.

According to the club, Kepa's fine will be donated to the Chelsea Foundation, the capital city side's charitable arm.