Chelsea Pull The Plug on Robert Sanchez As Dismal Form Seals His Fate

Chelsea have announced the exit of error-prone goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, who has headed to Italian club Como on a season-long loan for 2026–27.

The Spanish shot-stopper endured a turbulent spell at Stamford Bridge, with a string of blunders and unconvincing displays drawing heavy criticism. His shortcomings were on full display once again during Chelsea's Premier League season opener against Fulham.

Sánchez was at fault for both goals Chelsea conceded in their 3–2 win at Craven Cottage, prompting the club to quickly move for Emiliano Martínez from Aston Villa for $10.2 million (£7.5 million).

Chelsea have since been keen to move Sánchez on, and Como — led by former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fàbregas — have taken a chance on the struggling goalkeeper as they gear up for their historic first-ever Champions League campaign.

The Serie A outfit had already brought in Trevoh Chalobah from Chelsea earlier this summer, so Sánchez will have a recognizable face waiting for him at his new club.

"It's been a great welcoming," Sánchez said on his arrival. "I'm very happy to be here. I will do my best to improve this team. I can't wait to get started."

One Mistake Too Many for Sánchez

Xabi Alonso had claimed he was satisfied with his goalkeeping options earlier in the summer, but Sánchez's woeful performance against Fulham appeared to be the final straw.

Errors are nothing new for the 28-year-old, who was directly responsible for three goals conceded last season across all competitions. His persistent lapses in focus left Chelsea unable to depend on him as they look to turn things around under Alonso.

While Sánchez was occasionally capable of pulling off an outstanding save, his poor distribution and failure to dominate his penalty area were key reasons behind Chelsea's decision to sanction his departure.

Chelsea also let Filip Jörgensen depart during the summer window, with the 24-year-old heading to sister club Strasbourg on loan for the campaign. He too failed to make a convincing case for himself during his time at Stamford Bridge.

Martínez represents a significant upgrade in Alonso's squad, though it is 21-year-old Mike Penders who is viewed as Chelsea's goalkeeper of the future. The Belgian made a strong impression at Strasbourg last season and will act as backup to the Argentina international this term.