Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders aims to prove himself at the Premier League side next season.
The Blues agreed a deal with KRC Genk for his transfer in August 2024 for the stopper to arrive at Stamford Bridge last summer.
Penders was part of Chelsea’s squad that won the Club World Cup in July 2025. Later that month, the west London club let him join RC Strasbourg on a season-long loan deal.
The temporary move to the Ligue 1 side allowed him to feature regularly. He finished this season with 4,631 minutes from 52 matches, keeping 12 clean sheets and conceding 65 goals.
His performances helped him make it to the Belgium squad in November and March but he’s yet to make his senior debut. De Rode Duivels manager Rudi Garcia has included him in the World Cup squad.
WC callup surprises Chelsea man
The 20-year-old didn’t expect to make it to Rudi Garcia’s final list for the World Cup and Voetbalkrant have relayed his comments.
“Did I know beforehand? No, not at all. When the national coach called out my name, I did cheer for a moment. My family at home was also incredibly happy; we called each other immediately,” he said.
“Because the competition from fellow goalkeepers was really tough. They all had an incredible season; it certainly won’t have been easy for the coach to make the decision.”
Not ruling out Chelsea exit
As things stand, the goalkeeper has to return to the English club.
The Belgian media are curious whether Mike Penders will breakthrough at Chelsea next season or go out on loan.
Responding to that, Penders explained: “I am starting pre-season at Chelsea and will try to prove myself in training. Hopefully, I stay injury-free and can prove myself.
“Anything is possible, but I am starting at Chelsea and will do my utmost to achieve my goal. Am I ready for it? Definitely, but first I want to focus entirely on this World Cup. After that, we’ll see.”
Quick future decision unlikely
The Belgium will only return to Chelsea after the World Cup and the summer break.
In other words, he will start pre-season late and therefore, the Blues may not make the final decision soon.
Mike Penders’ contract at Chelsea lasts until 2032 and he’s valued at €25m by Transfermarkt.