Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has confirmed that he expects to be back in action "in a few weeks" following an operation. The 34-year-old Argentina international, who moved to Stamford Bridge this summer after six seasons with Aston Villa, was injured during the Blues' 2-0 Premier League win against Everton on Saturday.
The setback occurred in the second half at Hill Dickinson Stadium following an aerial collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, which reportedly left Martinez with a broken jaw. The shot-stopper received medical attention on the pitch for eight minutes before being taken off on a stretcher and transferred to hospital, where manager Xabi Alonso confirmed he was concussed. Providing an update on social media on Sunday while wearing a hospital gown, Martinez said: "Thanks to everyone for the messages. The operation went well. The most important thing is that we won, and kept a clean sheet. In a few weeks we'll be back."
With Martinez sidelined, 21-year-old Mike Penders entered the pitch to make his Premier League debut. Penders, who arrived at Chelsea from Belgian outfit Genk in 2024 for a fee of £17m, received praise from Alonso for his composure in relief. Alonso stated: "Mike has personality. He's brave and we have full trust with him. He did well when he came on. He played in the cup games and whenever he's needed. Like the other players, whenever they are needed they can perform."
Alonso added that squad depth remains vital: "It's all about the squad - that all the players feel important and can have their moment whenever they are needed, and that's very positive." Penders now looks poised to start in Chelsea's next three fixtures at minimum. The young goalkeeper faces a crucial stretch, with upcoming Premier League matches against Tottenham and Manchester United, alongside a Carabao Cup tie away to Liverpool.