Emiliano Martinez needed urgent medical attention and was stretchered off the pitch after suffering a sickening injury in Chelsea’s Premier League clash against Everton on Saturday afternoon.
The Blues continued their good start to the season after defeating David Moyes’ side at Hill Dickinson Stadium. There was very little between the two sides in the opening 45 minutes, with chances few and far between for both teams.
Xabi Alonso’s side came racing out of the blocks in the second half, and it took them just 45 seconds to break the deadlock following the restart. Jorrel Hato’s cut back found Pedro Neto with time and space inside the box and the Portuguese winger’s effort found the corner. Neto scored his second in the 90th minute to extend his side’s lead.
There were no further goals as Chelsea picked up all three points, but their victory was marred by a potentially serious injury to their star goalkeeper.
Update on Emiliano Martinez’s Condition Emerges
Martinez, who signed for Chelsea from Aston Villa in the summer, was once again named in Chelsea’s starting lineup in Merseyside. He was imperious during his time on the pitch, making four saves and two high claims.
He had to be replaced midway through the second half, though, following a sickening clash with Everton defender, Jarrad Branthwaite.
A free-kick was swung into the box in the 67th minute by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Martinez and Branthwaite, who both only had eyes for the ball, charged into each other at a high speed.
Martinez, considered one of the best goalkeepers in world football, collapsed to the ground in a heap and was in clear distress. Medical staff rushed on to the pitch to assist the Argentine goalkeeper, who was given oxygen.
After receiving treatment for nine minutes, the 2022 World Cup winner was put onto a stretcher and taken to hospital.
Loud boos rang around Hill Dickinson Stadium as Martinez was taken off. Mike Penders came on for his Chelsea debut in his place.
Branthwaite also needed treatment after sustaining a cut on his nose and lower lip, but he was able to continue.
Alonso gave an update on Martinez’s condition after the match. Speaking on TNT Sports, he said, per football.london:
“As far as I know, he left the stadium conscious; he’s in the hospital doing precautionary tests.Let’s see. This is all I know so far.”
The Blues are currently fourth in the Premier League having amassed 13 points from their opening seven matches to start the 2026/27 Premier League season.
Chelsea return to league action on Saturday, October 24, when they welcome fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur to Stamford Bridge. Penders will likely make his full debut for the club should Martinez not be able to play.
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