Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Despite conceding three goals, it was a fantastic debut for Emi Martinez in a Chelsea shirt as the Blues defeated Brighton at Stamford Bridge.
After the Blues flew into a three-goal lead in the first half, they found themselves under pressure and holding on with the score at 3-2.
This was where Martinez stepped up with a number of crucial saves, keeping out the Seagulls before Cole Palmer scored what proved to be the decisive winning goal.
The numbers behind Emi Martinez’s brilliant Chelsea debut
The Argentine made four saves in total, including a stunning one at his near post to deny Diego Gomez a goal which would have made the scoreline 3-3.
Martinez recorded one high claim from a corner which instantly drew a round of applause from the Stamford Bridge faithful as they realised they were in safe hands again.
Chelsea FC v Brighton & Hove Albion - Premier League 2026/27
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Passing had been a key area where Robert Sanchez’s game had been let down. Frequently, he would play his side into trouble with his suspect passing out from the back.
There were no such issues with Martinez, who elected to go long and look for the likes of Joao Pedro and Pedro Neto to get Chelsea up the pitch.
He completed 14 long passes in the game, even nearly picking up an assist when he sent the Brazil international clean through on goal in the second half.
He created two chances during the match, and his ability to find teammates from range looks as if it will be a weapon that will frequently be on show at Stamford Bridge.
In total, Martinez recovered possession 13 times for the Blues, and he frequently gestured for support from a fanbase who were extremely nervy at times.
Pedro described Martinez as a ‘special goalkeeper’ after the game, and he picked up a 9/10 in our player ratings from the game.
It looks as if he will solve the crisis the Blues have had between the sticks for a number of years now.