Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was taken to hospital for precautionary tests after suffering a suspected concussion during his side’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton on Saturday.
The Argentine goalkeeper collided with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the 68th minute while attempting to collect a cross from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s free-kick at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The incident caused an eight-minute stoppage before Martinez was replaced by Mike Penders, who made his Premier League debut for Chelsea and helped the visitors complete their first league clean sheet in nine months.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso confirmed after the match that Martinez had suffered a concussion, although further medical examinations were required to determine the severity of the injury.
“It was a concussion, but beyond that I do not know. I have only seen one clip of the incident, so we need to wait,” Alonso said.
“What we know is that he left the stadium conscious and is now in hospital undergoing precautionary tests.
“We need to wait. Hopefully it will not be too serious, but at the moment we just have to wait.”
Martinez’s condition could affect Chelsea’s preparations for a demanding run of fixtures, with Tottenham and Manchester United awaiting them in the Premier League, alongside a Carabao Cup meeting with Liverpool.
Chelsea End Defensive Struggles Against Everton
While Martinez’s injury overshadowed the result, Chelsea delivered an important defensive performance as Pedro Neto scored twice to secure all three points.
The Blues had gone 23 Premier League matches without keeping a clean sheet, with their previous shutout coming in a 2-0 victory over Brentford in January.
Chelsea had also conceded 13 league goals before the match, raising concerns about their defensive organisation and ability to cope with physical opponents away from home.
However, Alonso’s side responded with a disciplined display that restricted Everton to just six shots and one clear-cut scoring opportunity.
Chelsea recorded an expected goals against figure of 0.45, their lowest against a Premier League opponent this season, highlighting the improvement in their defensive structure.
Alonso deployed a back three of Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill, while Neto and Jorrel Hato operated as wing-backs.
Moises Caicedo and new signing Jordan Henderson provided additional protection in midfield, helping Chelsea remain organised during Everton’s periods of pressure.
“We needed to show that we can win in this way,” Alonso added. “We looked solid, we played solidly, we were strong and we stayed in control.
“In the first half there were difficult periods with throw-ins, corners and pressure from Everton. You have to overcome those moments.
“In the Premier League it is very hard to have complete control in an away game, but you cannot lose your shape or your conviction.”
Penders Faces Crucial Test If Martinez Is Unavailable
Martinez’s injury has placed the spotlight on Penders, who was called upon to make his Premier League debut after replacing the Argentine.
Chelsea signed the Belgian goalkeeper from Genk for £17 million in 2024 before allowing him to remain at the club on loan. He subsequently spent last season with sister club Strasbourg, gaining valuable experience in Ligue 1 and European competition.
Standing at 6ft 7in, Penders has attracted comparisons with Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, having developed through the same respected Genk goalkeeping system.
He has also been involved in Belgium’s national team set-up, where he has worked alongside Courtois.
However, Chelsea could face a difficult decision over their goalkeeping options if Martinez is ruled out for an extended period.
Premier League concussion protocols generally require players to complete a graduated return-to-play process, with a minimum 14-day period typically applying before a return to competitive action.
Chelsea will therefore monitor Martinez’s condition closely before deciding whether Penders must start their upcoming fixtures.
For Alonso, the priority will be ensuring the goalkeeper makes a full recovery while maintaining the defensive improvement demonstrated against Everton. The medical assessment will determine Martinez’s availability, with Chelsea hoping their first clean sheet in nine months can provide a foundation for greater consistency in the weeks ahead.
