The Spain manager has sent a clear message to Xabi Alonso regarding the quality at his disposal at Chelsea, giving Robert Sanchez his backing.
Robert Sanchez has endured a highly inconsistent, heavily scrutinised season as Chelsea‘s primary goalkeeper. He has managed to maintain his position as the club’s number one across more than forty appearances in all competitions, but it hasn’t been without its mistakes.
It’s frustrating, as Sanchez showcased his undeniable shot-stopping ability, notably making a crucial, match-defining save against Tottenham to preserve a vital 2-1 derby win. However, his performances have also been marred by costly tactical errors, lapses of concentration, and a lack of consistency that has contributed to Chelsea dropping several points.
And now with Xabi Alonso arriving this summer, there’s a big decision to make with Mike Penders set to be integrated into the Chelsea squad next season.
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Luis de la Fuente likes what he sees from Robert Sanchez
Despite being missing from Spain’s provisional World Cup squad, manager Luis de la Fuente has given Robert Sanchez some big praise, placing him in the top 10 best goalkeepers in the world.
On Mario Suarez’s YouTube channel, the Spain boss had this to say.
“And another case I want to mention is David Raya. People only talk about Joan García and Unai, and David Raya is the least-conceding goalkeeper in Europe.
“What’s tragic is that people don’t talk about David Raya out of ignorance. That’s the real problem. We can debate liking one goalkeeper more than another. I’ve said in interviews that, in my opinion, six of the ten best goalkeepers in the world are Spanish. Unai Simon, the ones at Madrid, the ones with us. David Raya, Alex Remiro, Joan García and Robert Sanchez.
“And it’s unfair that David isn’t recognised for the footballing ability he has. Because, in my opinion, he’s one of the five best goalkeepers in the world. Yes, absolutely.”
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Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation right now
Chelsea’s goalkeeper situation has plunged into fresh uncertainty following Xabi Alonso’s arrival.
Penders, who spent a highly impressive season on loan at Strasbourg and earned a World Cup call-up, was initially earmarked to challenge Robert Sanchez for the number one spot upon his return.
However, Alonso’s appointment has prompted a rethink. Wary of relying entirely on youth after shaky defensive campaigns from Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen, Chelsea are also open to signing an elite, proven goalkeeper like Jordan Pickford, Mike Maignan, or Sunderland’s standout Robin Roefs.
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