Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is facing several weeks on the sidelines after suffering a fractured jaw during his side’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton. The Argentina international has undergone successful surgery, with the club confirming that he will receive full support throughout his recovery.

The injury occurred on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Hill Dickinson Stadium, where Chelsea secured an important away victory. Martinez was involved in a collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite during the second half as both players challenged for a ball delivered into the penalty area from a free kick.

The impact left the goalkeeper requiring lengthy medical attention on the pitch. After receiving treatment for several minutes, he was placed on a stretcher and taken to hospital for further assessment. Initial concerns centred on a possible head injury, with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso confirming after the match that Martinez had suffered a concussion.

Further examinations revealed a fractured jaw that required surgical treatment. Chelsea subsequently announced that the operation had been successful, providing some reassurance to supporters concerned about the goalkeeper’s condition.

Martinez later shared an update from his hospital bed, thanking supporters for their messages and expressing relief that the operation had gone well. He also remained focused on the team’s achievement, writing: “The most important thing is that we won, and kept a clean sheet. We'll be back in a few weeks.”

His absence presents Chelsea with a goalkeeping challenge as the club prepares for a demanding run of fixtures. Young Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders replaced Martinez against Everton, making his Premier League debut and helping Chelsea preserve their first league clean sheet in nine months.

Alonso praised Penders’ composure and indicated that the club had confidence in its squad options. The young goalkeeper could now receive additional opportunities while Martinez completes his rehabilitation and works towards returning to full fitness.

Chelsea’s victory was secured by Pedro Neto, who scored twice to give the visitors all three points. However, the result was overshadowed by the serious injury to Martinez, whose condition required immediate medical attention.

Although the goalkeeper has indicated that he hopes to return within a few weeks, his actual comeback will depend on his recovery and medical clearance. Chelsea will be keen to avoid rushing him back before he is ready to resume competitive action.

The injury is a setback for both Martinez and Chelsea, but the successful surgery has provided encouragement as he begins his recovery.

https://www.facebook.com/share/19t8Kt2R26/