Mendy, who has been a standout player for the Blues this season, is set to miss a number of games for Thomas Tuchel’s side as he prepares to represent Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations, which starts on Sunday.
Arrizabalaga is set to stand in for the No.1 ‘keeper, as he has done in the Carabao Cup this season.
The Spaniard has faced criticism following his £71.6million move from Athletic Bilbao in 2018, and was linked with an exit from Stamford Bridge when former boss Frank Lampard was in charge.
But the Blues’ backup stopper Bettinelli has talked up Arrizabalaga’s qualities, branding him ‘one of the best in the world’.
‘Kepa is one of the best technically I’ve seen, in terms of the overall package,’ Bettinelli told The Athletic. ‘He is good at everything — handling, footwork, having the ball at his feet.
‘There is not a doubt in my mind about what Kepa can do while Edou is away. I wasn’t at the club when Kepa was first left out and the reasons for that, but I can speak about what I’ve seen since I joined Chelsea.
‘He’s been an unbelievable person and an unbelievable professional. He commits to training every day and in the games he’s played, he’s been brilliant. He’s made saves, come for crosses, kicked really well…
‘I personally don’t see anything to worry about. Edou is always going to be missed, because he is a fantastic keeper. But for anyone to suggest Kepa isn’t an adequate replacement is ridiculous. He is one of the best in the world.’