Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is expected to be sidelined for several weeks following a jaw injury sustained during the 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton on Saturday. The incident occurred when Martinez clashed heads with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the second half at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
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Martinez received treatment for eight minutes before being taken off the pitch on a stretcher. He was subsequently transported to a hospital, where Chelsea confirmed he underwent successful surgery.
Following the operation, Martinez shared a photo of himself in a hospital gown on social media, stating, "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."
Mike Penders, who replaced Martinez, is set to start in at least the next three matches for Chelsea. These include upcoming fixtures against Tottenham and Manchester United in the Premier League, along with a Carabao Cup tie against Liverpool.
Penders, a 21-year-old goalkeeper signed from Belgian club Genk for £17 million in 2024, made his Premier League debut following Martinez's injury. Chelsea manager Alonso expressed confidence in Penders, noting, "Mike has personality. He's brave and we have full trust in him. He did well when he came on. It’s all about the squad—every player feels important and can have their moment whenever they are needed, and that's very positive."