Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has made a decisive move in his first home match of the 2026-27 Premier League season, naming new signing Emiliano Martinez in the starting XI to face Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge. The veteran goalkeeper, who joined from Aston Villa for £7.5 million earlier this week, was thrust into the lineup just hours after his arrival was officially confirmed.
The decision to start Martinez—who has signed a three-year contract and taken the number 26 shirt—follows a shaky performance by Robert Sanchez in Chelsea’s opening league match against Fulham. Sanchez, who committed two errors during that game, has been entirely omitted from the matchday squad as the club reportedly prepares to entertain offers for him before the transfer window closes.
Fans have reacted strongly to Alonso’s tactical shift, taking to social media to commend the manager’s ruthlessness. Supporters praised the decision to act quickly, with one fan noting that the Argentinian’s immediate inclusion signals that Alonso is at the club to win everything. Others highlighted the boldness of the move, with some joking that the ownership had simply reached their limit with Sanchez’s recent form.
Martinez, whose last competitive appearance was the FIFA World Cup final against Spain on July 19, will be supported by 21-year-old Mike Penders, who takes a spot on the bench. This selection marks a significant change in the Blues’ defensive setup as they look to secure their first home points of the campaign.
Meanwhile, midfielder Enzo Fernandez remains absent from the squad for the second consecutive fixture, having also missed the midweek Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town. The 25-year-old is currently seeking an exit from Stamford Bridge and has reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with Manchester City.
While Manchester City has not yet submitted a formal bid to Chelsea, expectations remain that an approach could materialize in the final 24 hours of the transfer window. Alonso has opted to keep the former Benfica player out of the team to allow him to resolve his future. Chelsea management has indicated they are comfortable retaining the midfielder if their valuation is not met, but remain open to a sale should the right offer arrive. The report also notes that with 21-year-old prodigy Mike Penders starting the game on the bench, veteran shot-stopper Martinez is set for an immediate debut between the sticks. The report also notes that another fan stated that Alonso made a statement by starting the Argentina international. The report also notes that stating that the club’s owners have grown tired of Sanchez, too, another fan saw the funny side. The report also notes that in the meantime, Xabi Alonso has decided once again to leave out the former Benfica man in order to enable him to work out his future.
