Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior chose protection over blame as questions grew around Robert Sanchez.
Rosenior Reacts On Errors From Robert Sanchez
Chelsea fell 3-2 to Arsenal at home in the Carabao Cup Semi final first leg. The much of the talk was focused on Robert Sanchez after the all-Premier League tie. The keeper struggled early as the Gunners took control. Rosenior did not dodge the issue. He confirmed the mistakes were on him and made it clear Sanchez was following instructions.
The Blues’ manager said: “It’s a team goal, it’s not just on Rob (Sanchez).
“I’m asking Rob to do things that he hasn’t done before. I said to him before the game, and I made this really clear, when my players make mistakes, I’m accountable. That’s on me.”
Declan Rice’s corner caused chaos and Ben White was the first to score. After the break, another moment went wrong. A cross from White slipped through Sanchez’s hands and Viktor Gyokeres finished it from a close range. Later on, Martin Zubimendi added a third as Chelsea looked shaken.
🚨 Every word Liam Rosenior just said on:
🔵 #CFC loss vs Arsenal
🔵 Robert Sanchez mistakes
🔵 Why he is taking responsibility
🔵 Injuries and illness in the camp
🔵 And much morehttps://t.co/s2OpVQ9q85
— Bobby Vincent (@BobbyVincentFL) January 14, 2026
Tactical Changes Planned As Chelsea Stay Alive
Rosenior also revealed he is adjusting how Sanchez plays from the back. It is part of a wider plan to reshape Chelsea’s build-up play. This was the manager’s first home game. He admitted that the changes will take time. He stressed that blaming one player would only hurt the group.
The West London club showed fight late on. Alejandro Garnacho came off the bench and scored twice. He gave the Blues the much needed hope ahead of the second leg. Those goals shifted the mood inside Stamford Bridge and kept the tie open.
Chelsea now travel to the Emirates knowing improvement is needed. For Rosenior, backing Sanchez publicly sends a clear message that this squad wins and loses together.
Author’s Opinion:
Rosenior made the right call by standing with Sanchez. Public trust can steady a player faster than criticism.
More on ARSENAL:
Follow Six Sports on