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According to a report by Metro on Sunday October 18, 2026, Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has reassured supporters about his recovery after suffering a serious injury during the club’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton, expressing confidence that he could return within a few weeks.
Pedro Neto scored in both halves to secure Chelsea’s first clean sheet of the league campaign, moving the Blues into fourth place. However, the result was overshadowed by Martinez’s worrying collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
The incident occurred during the second half at Hill Dickinson Stadium, forcing the referee to suspend play for approximately eight minutes while Chelsea’s medical team attended to the injured goalkeeper.
Martinez eventually left the pitch on a stretcher and was taken to hospital, where he underwent surgery to repair a broken jaw.
The Argentine subsequently shared an encouraging message on Instagram, thanking supporters for their concern and confirming that the operation had been successful.
“Thanks to everyone for the messages, the operation went well,” Martinez wrote.
He also celebrated Chelsea’s result, emphasising the importance of securing three points without conceding.
“The most important thing is that we won and with a clean sheet. We’ll be back in a few weeks,” the goalkeeper added.
With Martinez expected to spend time recovering, Mike Penders could be handed further opportunities when Chelsea resume their campaign against Tottenham next weekend.
The 21-year-old Belgian joined Chelsea from Genk in a reported £17 million deal and has made only three senior appearances for the club. He previously spent last season on loan at Strasbourg, making 33 league appearances as the French side finished eighth in Ligue 1.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso expressed confidence in the young goalkeeper after he replaced Martinez against Everton.
“Mike has personality,” Alonso said, praising Penders’ bravery and confirming that the club trusts him to perform whenever required.
The Chelsea boss also highlighted the importance of squad depth, explaining that every player must be ready to contribute when opportunities arise.
Reflecting on the victory, Alonso praised his team’s professionalism, maturity and control throughout the contest.
He described the result as an important away win, noting that Chelsea defended effectively, created chances and limited Everton’s attacking opportunities.
Although Martinez’s injury represents a setback, his positive recovery message offers encouragement. Chelsea will hope their replacement goalkeeper can maintain the team’s defensive stability during his absence.