Kepa Arrizabalaga vs David De Gea: Spain coach reveals why Chelsea goalkeeper has displaced Manchester United star as No 1

The world’s most expensive goalkeeper has been preferred by Luis Enrique in recent games

Kepa Arrizabalaga has started the last three matches for Spain ahead of David De Gea.

Luis Enrique has preferred the Chelsea No 1 over his Manchester United rival against Malta, Faroe Islands and Sweden.

The Blues star enjoyed an excellent end to the season, starring in the run to Baku to win the Europa League against Arsenal.

And Enrique’s assistant Robert Moreno has clarified why De Gea has been dropped.

“We don’t think the De Gea period with Spain is over,” Moreno said.

“But Kepa had an incredible end of the season – champion of the Europa League with great performances.

“In this concrete moment, we thought that Kepa could help us in a better way.

Kepa and De Gea chat during Spain training (REUTERS)

“The competition is now on. When you have something easy, you get relaxed, and that’s not good. The competitiveness is also good in goal.”

Kepa admitted he understood De Gea would be sad,

"I'm going to continue working as I have until now, doing my best at my club to keep the confidence of the coach," said Kepa.

"Whoever plays will do very well. Of course I understand that David is sad, we all train to play and then it is the decision of the coach, and it is up to you to respond well.

"We are always surrounded by such controversies, but we must take it naturally. I'm happy to play, to help the team and to finish the season in the best way possible.

"The season has been very long, but before we left we had these two very important commitments. We are happy to finish in the best way possible."

Spain next face Romoania in September, where De Gea will hope to regain his best form for United at the start of the Premier League season as the battle with Kepa continues.