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Chelsea have a new goalkeeper plan after Emi Martinez injury

Mike Penders is set for a full Chelsea debut after Emi Martinez's jaw injury, while Teddy Sharman-Lowe moves up to become Xabi Alonso's second-choice goalkeeper.

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 6:00 AM
Chelsea have a new goalkeeper plan after Emi Martinez injury
Key Things to Know
  • Chelsea are turning to 21-year-old Mike Penders to start after Emi Martinez suffered a broken jaw.
  • Martinez required surgery after colliding with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and will miss several weeks.
  • Penders is expected to make his full Premier League starting debut against Tottenham on Saturday.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Chelsea have altered their goalkeeping plans after starter Emi Martinez suffered a broken jaw against Everton, requiring surgery following a collision with Jarrad Branthwaite. Manager Xabi Alonso is set to hand 21-year-old Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders his first Premier League start against Tottenham on Saturday after Penders helped secure a 2-0 win over Everton as a substitute.

The injury also elevates 23-year-old Teddy Sharman-Lowe to second-choice goalkeeper for upcoming fixtures against Tottenham, Liverpool, and Manchester United. Chelsea signed Penders from Genk in 2024 before a loan spell at Strasbourg, and Alonso confirmed the coaching staff has full trust in the young keeper during Martinez's multi-week absence.

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