Photo by Adrian Dennis / AFP via Getty Images
Photo by Adrian Dennis / AFP via Getty Images
It’s the first game of the new Premier League season and we’re already talking about Robert Sanchez.
Robert Sanchez delivered another mixed performance in Chelsea’s 3–2 victory over Fulham. Despite pulling off the odd important save, Sanchez faced criticism for misjudging Josh King’s shot during Fulham’s equalizer, as well as gifting the Cottagers a second.
The first lapse mirrored his erratic 2025–26 campaign, where brilliant displays were regularly undercut by errors and poor decision-making under pressure.
With young Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders returning from his loan spell at Strasbourg to take his place on the bench, Sanchez faces serious pressure to retain his starting spot under new manager Xabi Alonso.
Xabi Alonso defends Robert Sanchez’s position
Speaking to Sky Sports after Chelsea‘s win over Fulham, Xabi Alonso kept it short and sweet, basically telling everyone to calm down.
“The first goal we can do better than that. But it’s a process, it’s day 1.”
However, Gary Neville wasn’t so kind, as he suggested signing Emi Martinez from Aston Villa after the game, as well as offering his assessment on the Sanchez situation.
“His job is to be successful for Chelsea and maybe he sticks with Robert Sanchez but I think he has to protect himself.”
Sanchez made four saves, four high claims, completed seven of 24 long balls and 10 out of his 27 passes, so there are definitely improvements to be had.