Chelsea's Robert Sanchez Dodges Premier League Suspension Despite Controversy
Robert Sánchez has consistently been viewed by many as merely a temporary solution for Chelsea's goalkeeping position, with mistakes and concentration lapses frequently overshadowing solid periods of performance. Enzo Maresca switched to Filip Jörgensen at certain points during the previous campaign, but the Danish keeper's serious error at Villa Park secured Sánchez's position for the foreseeable future.
Despite Chelsea being heavily connected with Mike Maignan and, somewhat less so, Gianluigi Donnarumma during the transfer window, Maresca maintained his confidence in Sánchez following an outstanding Club World Cup performance.
The keeper's strong form from the United States had carried over into the 2025–26 season, but then came one of those classic Sánchez blunders that negated much of his recent progress. His reckless challenge on Manchester United's Bryan Mbeumo resulted in Chelsea being reduced to ten men within just five minutes, and their eventual 2–1 loss was largely enabled by the goalkeeper's poor decision-making.
Nevertheless, Sánchez will be available to feature for the Blues in their upcoming Premier League match against Brighton & Hove Albion next Saturday. Here's the explanation.
Why Robert Sánchez Won't Miss a Single Premier League Game
Although Sánchez received a red card at Old Trafford, he will face only a single-match suspension. The goalkeeper was dismissed for preventing a clear scoring chance, not for violent behavior, despite his tackle on Mbeumo being quite elevated.
Players usually face suspension for a minimum of three matches when sent off in the Premier League for violent conduct.
Consequently, Sánchez is only prohibited from Chelsea's Carabao Cup third-round encounter at Lincoln City on Tuesday evening—a match he probably wouldn't have started regardless. Jörgensen came on for the Spaniard following his dismissal, and the Danish keeper will be selected at the LNER Stadium during the week, with Maresca expected to make numerous changes from Saturday's starting eleven.
Although the Chelsea manager was understandably annoyed with his goalkeeper for his expensive red card, Maresca will likely restore Sánchez to his lineup for Brighton's arrival next weekend.