Chelsea Goalkeeper Martinez Out After Jaw Surgery Following Everton Clash

Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has had surgery to repair a fractured jaw he sustained during the club's 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton on Saturday. The injury occurred in the second half at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium when Martinez rushed off his line to punch away a free-kick and collided with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

Medical personnel treated the 34-year-old Argentine international for approximately eight to ten minutes on the pitch, providing oxygen and securing a neck brace before transporting him to hospital by stretcher. Both sets of supporters applauded as he was carried off.

The surgical procedure on the jaw fracture was completed successfully late Saturday night at the hospital in Liverpool following further assessment. Chelsea's coaching staff, led by manager Xabi Alonso, also noted that Martinez suffered concussion from the impact.

Young backup goalkeeper Mike Penders will assume starting duties in Chelsea's upcoming matches while Martinez recovers. Regarding the recovery timeline, sources differ slightly on expectations.

Martinez himself indicated through a social media post from his hospital bed that he anticipates returning to action within weeks. However, reports from medical assessments suggest a recovery period of approximately 40 days, though Chelsea's official statement did not specify an exact date for his return to training or match fitness.

The incident was serious enough to warrant extended medical attention and transfer to hospital, yet both clubs' medical teams handled the emergency response efficiently. Martinez's injury is the latest blow to Chelsea's goalkeeper contingency planning this season.

The club has pledged full support to the goalkeeper during his rehabilitation period as he works toward match readiness.