Few players have faced as much criticism or calls to be benched and sold since arriving at a club as Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
A series of costly mistakes completely eroded supporters’ confidence in him, particularly during his first season, when he committed five errors that directly led to goals. Those performances saw him dropped on several occasions, with now-Bournemouth goalkeeper Petrovic preferred between the posts.
However, despite the mistakes that proved costly for Chelsea, head coach Enzo Maresca maintained his faith in Robert Sanchez. Since the start of the 2025/2026 season, the Spanish goalkeeper has looked far more assured at the back, showing greater command of his area and leadership in organising the defence. As a result, he has emerged as one of Chelsea’s most improved players this season.
Chelsea Goalkeeper Sanchez Hits Form at the Perfect Time
Sanchez, who is tied on eight Premier League clean sheets with Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, has been in the form of his life. Despite conceding 13 goals, he has single-handedly kept the Blues alive in difficult games.
His ability to snatch high balls, claiming 27 so far, has repeatedly provided much-needed relief for his defence. Coupled with 32 saves this season, his 71.1% save rate ranks among the best in the league.
His quick reflexes, commanding presence and crucial late saves have preserved narrow leads and secured vital points, reinforcing his growing importance to Chelsea’s resurgence.
By walking away from a deal with AC Milan for Mike Maignan over their unwillingness to reduce their asking price, and allowing Manchester City a clear path to Gianluigi Donnarumma, the Blues have made it clear how much confidence they have in their current shot-stopper.
Chelsea goalkeeper Sanchez has earned the club’s full trust, with his performances valued and his role as the team’s number one cemented, proving that the Blues are committed to growth and stability rather than splashing the cash on replacements.
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Petrovic’s League Woes Continue
Against Manchester United, Serbian Djordje Petrivic had a game to forget. In what was a thrilling 4-4 draw – a match that could easily go down as one of the games of the season – he certainly played his part in the drama, albeit for the wrong reasons.
Petrovic, who spent the 2023/24 season at Chelsea, was initially sent on loan to the Blues’ sister club to gain experience. During his time in France, he impressed with his performances, prompting Bournemouth to secure his services permanently for £25 million upon his return.
However, so far this season, he has struggled to justify that price tag. In 17 games, he has managed just five clean sheets, conceding 28 goals, and has committed two errors leading to goals.
His latest error came against Manchester United: a lofted corner from Bruno Fernandes found Casemiro, whose header fell directly to Petrovic. The former Chelsea man could only parry the ball into his own net, giving United the lead just before halftime and leaving fans scratching their heads over his consistency.
Initially, the decision to sell Petrovic and keep Sanchez was met with scepticism by Chelsea fans, who feared it was the wrong move. But after witnessing the contrasting displays between both sets of goalies, it has become clear that Sanchez was the right choice.
While Petrovic struggled with costly errors, Sanchez has shown composure with crucial saves, and leadership from the back, repaying the club’s faith in him. His performance not only steadied the Blues’ defence but also highlighted the gulf in quality between the two players, vindicating Chelsea’s decision to back their man between the sticks.
This season, Chelsea goalkeeper Sanchez is clearly outshining Petrovic, and much of the credit goes to Enzo Maresca’s man-management. By trusting Sanchez and pushing him to shed the excess baggage that once held him back, Maresca has helped him elevate his game.
Sanchez now looks a level above Petrovic, proving that sometimes it’s best to let managers back their decisions and allow their methods to work.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Pro Sports Images
Recording Date: 06.12.2025
