EPL: Why I played goalkeeper Emi Martinez in Chelsea’s 4-3 win over Brighton – Alonso
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso addressed his decision to start new goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez in the team’s narrow 4-3 victory over Brighton on Sunday. The World Cup-winning goalkeeper joined Chelsea just hours before the match against Aston Villa but was immediately thrust into action.
Alonso expressed confidence in Martinez’s abilities, emphasizing that he had no reservations about inserting the goalkeeper into the lineup so soon after his arrival. Despite conceding three goals in his debut, Martinez played a crucial role in the club’s success, which included goals from Romeo Lavia, Pedro Neto, João Pedro, and Cole Palmer.
“Now with Emi, he’s a World Cup winner, 34 years old, and brings experience,” Alonso said after the match. “I spoke with him yesterday; we discussed the game and our team. He felt ready, so I didn’t need to tell him much to perform. While a keeper certainly aims for a clean sheet, I am pleased with his initial impact.”
Alonso noted that Martinez had only been with the team for 48 hours, allowing ample time to prepare for their upcoming matches. “We will have the whole week to prepare for the next one,” he added. “Day by day, we will feel his presence because he has the charisma and aura to positively influence the team.”
Chelsea will aim to maintain their winning momentum when they face Arsenal in an anticipated London derby next week.
