Martinez breaks jaw in Chelsea win at Everton

Chelsea’s Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez confirmed he will return “in a few weeks” after suffering a broken jaw during the club’s 2‑0 victory over Everton on Saturday. The injury occurred in the second half when Martinez collided heads with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. He received eight minutes of on‑field treatment before being taken off on a stretcher and later transported to hospital, where Chelsea said the surgery was successful.

Martinez shared a photo of himself in a hospital gown on social media on Sunday, writing, “Thanks to everyone for the messages. The operation went well. The most important thing is that we won, and kept a clean sheet. In a few weeks we’ll be back.”

Mike Penders, who replaced Martinez and made his Premier League debut, is expected to feature in Chelsea’s next three fixtures, which include matches against Tottenham and Manchester United, as well as a Carabao Cup tie with Liverpool. The 21‑year‑old, signed from Belgian side Genk for £17 million in 2024, received praise from manager Graham Alonso, who said, “Mike has personality. He’s brave and we have full trust with him. He did well when he came on. He played in the cup games and whenever he’s needed. Like the other players, whenever they are needed they can perform. It’s all about the squad – that all the players feel important and can have their moment whenever they are needed, and that’s very positive.”