Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is reportedly close to returning to Chelsea. Martinez, who moved from Aston Villa in the summer of 2024, has appeared in six games in all competitions since the start of the season and has established himself as a regular defender under manager Xabi Alonso. However, he was forced to be substituted with an injury during the Premier League round 7 match against Everton, and tests revealed that he had suffered a fractured jaw.
The surgery has already been completed, and manager Alonso said, ``It will take a few weeks, but I want him to come back as soon as possible,'' adding that he will continue to rely on the judgment of doctors and surgeons. He added that he is expected to be out of action for several weeks before returning, adding: "Considering it was a serious injury, I'd say it's going well." According to reports, the exact timing of his return has not been determined, but it is said that he may return earlier than originally planned. There is also information that he has been examined by a specialist in preparation for making a face mask, and that his rehabilitation is progressing smoothly.
Due to Martinez's absence, Chelsea will face Tottenham Hotspur in Round 8 of the Premier League and Liverpool in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup without a substitute. Belgian national team goalkeeper Mike Penders defended the goal as a substitute, but they lost the match against Tottenham in a shutout, 0-2, and against Liverpool, they lost in a penalty shootout, and it has been pointed out that the absence of the main goalkeeper had an impact on the result.
Looking ahead, as long as Martinez's rehabilitation progresses smoothly, we can expect him to return sooner than expected. While Chelsea wait for his return, they plan to make arrangements for a replacement goalkeeper and strengthen safety measures such as wearing face masks. If his return is confirmed, it is expected that the team will regain stability in defense and improve performance in future matches.