According to a report by theprideoflondon.com on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Chelsea’s goalkeeping plans have changed after Emi Martínez suffered a broken jaw in the 2–0 win over Everton.

The Argentine has undergone surgery and is expected to miss several weeks, giving young goalkeeper Mike Penders an opportunity to step into the starting role.

Penders came on during the match at Hill Dickinson Stadium and helped Chelsea see out the victory. With Martínez sidelined, the 21-year-old is expected to start against Tottenham on Saturday. Teddy Sharman-Lowe, meanwhile, is set to move up to second choice.

Chelsea signed Penders from Genk in 2024, and he joined the club the following year. A loan spell at Strasbourg gave him valuable experience: he kept eight clean sheets in 33 Ligue 1 appearances and strengthened his reputation as a promising young goalkeeper.

Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has expressed confidence in the Belgian’s ability to handle the challenge.

“He has personality, is brave, and we have full trust in him. Whenever he is needed, he can perform,” Alonso said after Penders made his Premier League debut against Everton.

The timing is demanding. Chelsea’s upcoming schedule includes matches against Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester United, giving Penders little time to settle into the role. Strong performances could help him build confidence and accelerate his development.

Sharman-Lowe will also be closer to first-team action. The 23-year-old has gained senior experience on loan at Doncaster Rovers and Bolton Wanderers, and could be called upon if Penders is unavailable or needs replacing.

For now, Penders appears to be Chelsea’s first choice while Martínez recovers. The club’s priority will be ensuring their injured goalkeeper returns safely, rather than rushing him back.

In the meantime, Penders has a significant chance to show that he can meet the demands of Premier League football and make a case for a bigger role at Stamford Bridge.