According to a report by Football London on November 6, 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has provided an update on goalkeeper Emi Martinez ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash against Sunderland, revealing that a final decision on his availability will be made after the club’s final training session.

Martinez has been working towards returning to action after an injury setback, with Chelsea carefully monitoring his fitness ahead of the trip to Sunderland.

The Argentine goalkeeper’s potential return presents Alonso with an important selection decision, particularly with Mike Penders also competing for a place in the starting lineup.

Speaking about whether Martinez could start ahead of Penders, Alonso confirmed that no final decision had been made but praised the experienced goalkeeper for his progress in training.

“We will decide. He is training well,” Alonso said.

The Chelsea manager provided further details about Martinez’s recovery, explaining that the goalkeeper had made considerable efforts to return earlier than initially expected.

Alonso also revealed that the club would use Saturday’s training session to assess his condition before making a final decision on Sunday.

“Tomorrow we have the last session before Sunday. We will decide. He is training well. All the decisions are tough in all positions. Emi has made a great effort to come back, ahead of the plans to be part of the team. Tomorrow we will check, Sunday final decision,” Alonso explained.

The comments suggest that Martinez has made encouraging progress, although Chelsea are still taking precautions before confirming whether he is ready to feature against Sunderland.

His possible return would provide Alonso with another experienced option between the posts as Chelsea prepare for another important Premier League fixture.

Meanwhile, Penders will also be hoping to retain his place if Martinez is not considered ready to start. The young goalkeeper remains an alternative for the Chelsea manager as he evaluates his options.

Alonso’s admission that selection decisions are difficult in every position also highlights the competition within his squad.