‘Robert Sanchez still backed by Ben Roberts at Chelsea amid Mike Penders update’
Robert Sanchez seemingly remains in a strong position at Chelsea despite a difficult season and links with alternative goalkeeping options this summer.
The 2024/25 campaign ended up being a successful for one for the Blues, as Enzo Maresca’s side won the UEFA Conference League and qualified for the Champions League for next season.
However, one position that proved to be something of an issue at Stamford Bridge was in goal, where a number of costly errors were made over the course of the campaign.
That had led to some Chelsea fans calling for Sanchez to be sold in the transfer window, although not everyone behind the scenes at the club seemingly wants that to happen.
Robert Sanchez retains Stamford Bridge support
Amid that scrutiny around the goalkeeping situation at Stamford Bridge, the club have been linked with other options in that position.
Chelsea have made attempts to sign Mike Maignan from AC Milan, although those so far look as though they will prove to be unsuccessful.
Now, a new update from The Guardian has stated that amid all that, Sanchez still retains the backing of the Blues’ Global Head of Goalkeeping, Ben Roberts.
That would indicate that the Spaniard may be set to remain at Stamford Bridge for next season, potentially as first choice between the posts again.
Meanwhile, another goalkeeper who could be involved in the first-team setup for Chelsea next season is Mike Penders.
The 19-year-old has joined the club this summer from Genk in his native Belgium, and it is suggested he will be third choice between the posts for Enzo Maresca‘s side next season.
That comes in the wake of Marcus Bettinelli’s departure to Man City already in this summer’s transfer window.
Chelsea goalkeeper stance is a controversial one
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There is no doubt that there is an element of risk attached to an approach such as this that could see Sanchez remain as the Blues number one for next season.
Chelsea need to make progress after what was a promising debut season under Maresca, but that will not be easy if Sanchez remains as first choice, and continues to make the errors he did this campaign.
Of course, the Spaniard is close to Roberts, having previously described him as his “second father” [The Sun] and so this latest update may raise eyebrows.
Some Chelsea fans have felt that connection between the pair has helped Sanchez keep his place in the side despite underperforming at times.
This is unlikely to change that feeling, and it could add to the frustration if the goalkeeper continues to make things hard for his team in the coming campaign.
In that respect, the pressure on Sanchez may well have increased even further now, not only to deliver for Chelsea, but also to stave off any questions about how he is keeping his place in the starting XI.