Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez suffered a jaw fracture requiring immediate surgery after a collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
Pedro Neto scores two goals during victory
The incident occurred midway through the second half of Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League win at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday. Following a free-kick whipped into the Chelsea box, Martinez collided with Branthwaite and went to ground. The 34-year-old Argentina international received urgent medical attention, was administered oxygen, and was treated on the pitch for approximately nine minutes before being placed on a stretcher and taken to hospital.
Pedro Neto scored both goals for the London side, securing all three points against the previously unbeaten Toffees. However, Blues manager Xabi Alonso admitted after the match that initial information on the pitch was limited. “It was a concussion, but beyond that I do not know,” Alonso said. “What we know is that he left the stadium conscious and is now in hospital undergoing precautionary tests.” Subsequent hospital examinations revealed the jaw fracture, necessitating an immediate procedure.
Statement From Hospital Bed
Following his surgery, the 2022 World Cup winner posted an update on social media from his hospital room, accompanied by a photograph. “Thank you all for the messages, the operation went well,” Martinez wrote. “The most important thing is that we won with a clean sheet. We’ll be back in a few weeks.”
Goalkeeper faces extended recovery period from injury
Martinez faces an extended recovery period, with Argentine journalist César Luis Merlo claiming that the 2022 World Cup winner could be out for around 40 days. This timeline means the former Aston Villa goalkeeper will miss several high-profile fixtures. Chelsea’s upcoming schedule includes home matches against Tottenham and Manchester United, alongside a Carabao Cup fourth-round tie against Liverpool. If Martinez is sidelined for the best part of six weeks, he could also miss league games against Sunderland, Leeds, and Nottingham Forest in November.
Opportunity for Mike Penders
Martinez’s absence opens the door for 21-year-old Mike Penders to secure an extended run in the Chelsea team. Signed from Genk last year, the Belgian made his Blues debut off the bench against Everton following the injury, delivering an assured performance on Merseyside. Penders spent last season on loan at Chelsea’s sister club Strasbourg, making 50 appearances across all competitions, and now has the chance to establish himself as genuine competition for Martinez upon the Argentine’s return.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score between Chelsea and Everton?
Chelsea defeated Everton 2-0 at Hill Dickinson Stadium, with Pedro Neto scoring both goals.
How long is Emiliano Martinez expected to be out?
Argentine journalist César Luis Merlo claimed that Martinez could be out for around 40 days following his jaw surgery.
Who replaced Martinez during the Everton match?
Mike Penders came on to make his Chelsea debut after Martinez was stretchered off in the second half.