Martínez Eyes Quick Return as Chelsea Win at Everton

Martínez Set for Spell Out After Fractured Jaw

Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez has said he expects to return to action “in a few weeks” after undergoing surgery on a fractured jaw sustained during his team’s 2-0 Premier League win at Everton on Saturday.

The Argentina international was taken to hospital after colliding with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite during the second half at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Martínez, 34, required eight minutes of treatment on the pitch before being carried off on a stretcher. Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso later said the goalkeeper had suffered a concussion.

Writing on social media on Sunday alongside a photo of himself in a hospital bed, Martínez said: “Thanks to everyone for the messages. The operation went well. The most important thing is that we won, and kept a clean sheet. We’ll be back in a few weeks.”

The Blues left Merseyside with all three points and a clean sheet, a result that was overshadowed by the concern for their goalkeeper. Martínez’s positive update will come as a relief to Alonso and the Chelsea squad as they prepare for the coming fixtures.

Penders Poised to Step In

With Martínez sidelined, Mike Penders is set to deputise in his absence. The 21-year-old made his Premier League debut as a substitute against Everton, replacing the injured Martínez.

Penders joined Chelsea from Belgian club Genk in August 2024 and has spent the past two seasons out on loan, including a spell at Strasbourg last term. His first taste of Premier League action came in difficult circumstances, but the young goalkeeper will now have the opportunity to stake a claim for a regular role while Martínez recovers.

Chelsea’s win at Everton adds to what has been a mixed start to the season, but the defensive solidity shown at Hill Dickinson Stadium — even after losing their first-choice goalkeeper — will encourage Alonso. The Blues will be hoping Martínez’s recovery goes to plan as they navigate a busy period in the Premier League predictions race.

Mbeumo the Bright Spot for United

Elsewhere on Sunday, Bryan Mbeumo continued to be Manchester United’s most reliable attacking outlet in their 1-1 draw with Leeds. According to Sky Sports’ analysis, Michael Carrick called the performance a “fresh start” after watching his side battle and duel better than they had all season.

Mbeumo’s form has been a continuation of what went before — about the only player who has shown a shade of consistency during a difficult start. Three of his four Premier League goals have put United 1-0 ahead this term, and his strike against Leeds marked an important momentum shift in a game that could have otherwise got away from them.

Since his switch from Brentford, Mbeumo’s 15 goals are more than any other United player, including Bruno Fernandes. Just two victories from 10 games in all competitions means Carrick is not off the hook, but while Mbeumo keeps scoring, he has something positive to build on.

Eze Struggles as Forest’s Goal Woes Continue

Sky Sports’ Hits & Misses column also highlighted Eberechi Eze’s struggles to show his worth to Arsenal with others waiting in the wings. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest’s lack of goals continues to concern, with the team’s attacking output remaining a major issue.

For United, the draw with Leeds leaves them with plenty to work on, but Mbeumo’s reliability offers a glimmer of hope. Carrick will need more players to step up if United are to climb the table, and the coming weeks will be telling.

As the Premier League season progresses, Chelsea will monitor Martínez’s recovery closely while handing Penders a chance to impress. United, meanwhile, will hope Mbeumo’s goalscoring run continues as they search for consistency. For the latest matchday analysis and today's AI betting tips, stay tuned to Betora.