Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has explained his decision to hand new goalkeeper Emi Martinez an immediate debut in Sunday’s 4-3 Premier League victory over Brighton.
Martinez completed his move to Chelsea just hours before the clash but was named in the starting XI by Alonso despite having had little time to train with his new teammates.
The Argentine goalkeeper, who was part of Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup-winning squad, conceded three goals on his Chelsea debut. However, the Blues held on to secure all three points.
Romeo Lavia, Pedro Neto, João Pedro and Cole Palmer were on target for Chelsea as Alonso’s side claimed a thrilling 4-3 win.
Speaking after the game, Alonso said he had no reservations about selecting Martinez because of the goalkeeper’s experience and readiness.
“Well, now with Emi, [he’s a] World Cup winner, 34 years old, experience all around,” Alonso said.
The Chelsea boss revealed that he had spoken with Martinez about the team and the game before deciding that the goalkeeper was prepared to play.
“I spoke with him yesterday, we talked about the game, about our team and he felt ready, so I don’t have to tell him many things to perform,” he added.
Although Martinez would have preferred to keep a clean sheet, Alonso praised his overall impact and believes his experience and personality will benefit the squad.
“He has been in the building for 48 hours, so now we will have the whole week to prepare for the next one,” Alonso said.
“Day by day we will feel his presence because he has this charisma, this aura to influence and to have a very positive connection with the rest of the team.”
Chelsea will now turn their attention to their next Premier League fixture, an eagerly anticipated London derby away to Arsenal next weekend.
