Martínez Takes Chelsea No. 1 Shirt After Sánchez Loan
Emiliano Martínez has officially taken over the No. 1 shirt at Chelsea after Robert Sánchez's departure on loan to Italian club Como. Chelsea announced this change on Friday, confirming that Martínez switched from the No. 26 shirt he wore during his debut in a 4-3 Premier League victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.
Sánchez's loan to Como left the traditional first-choice goalkeeper number available, as he had worn the No. 1 shirt during pre-season and the beginning of the campaign. Martínez joined Chelsea from Aston Villa on a three-year contract worth approximately £7.5 million.
His arrival is seen as a significant reinforcement for manager Xabi Alonso, especially after Sánchez faced criticism for his performances. The 33-year-old Martínez was part of Argentina's 2022 FIFA World Cup-winning squad and has extensive experience in the Premier League.
Following the number change, Martínez offered to sign all "Martinez 26" shirts purchased through Chelsea's official channels, with fans asked to bring proof of purchase to Stamford Bridge by October 4.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from Blueprint. Read the original report below.
Read full article
Continue on Blueprint
Enjoy this article?
Get the weekly Nigerian roundup — top stories, NPFL, naira. One email, Sunday morning.
Related Stories
Chelsea Signs Emiliano Martinez on Three-Year Contract
Chelsea Eyes Emiliano Martínez for Goalkeeper Position
Chelsea Pursues Emiliano Martinez Transfer from Villa
Emi Martínez Completes Chelsea Medical for £7.5M Transfer
Emiliano Martinez Eager for Chelsea Transfer Before Deadline
Emiliano Martinez Walks Through Arsenal Fans After Loss
Get Plus234Feed on messaging apps
Same headlines, delivered where you already scroll.
