Emiliano Martínez has jaw surgery after Chelsea win at Everton
In brief
Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez fractured his jaw when he clashed with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite during a 2-0 away victory on 17 October 2026. Chelsea said the operation was successful, and the 34-year-old Argentina international expects to return within weeks.
Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez fractured his jaw when he clashed with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite during Chelsea's 2-0 away victory over Everton in the Premier League on 17 October 2026. According to BBC Sport, the 34-year-old Argentine was carried off on a stretcher and rushed to hospital for an operation. Chelsea described the procedure as successful.
On 18 October 2026 Martínez shared a picture from his hospital bed and thanked supporters, BBC Sport reported, adding that he expects to be playing again within weeks. Chelsea have not given a specific return date.
“Thanks to everyone for the messages. The operation went well. The most important thing is that we won, and kept a clean sheet. In a few weeks we'll be back.”
How did Emiliano Martínez get injured?
After the break at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Emiliano Martínez went up for a high ball and collided head-first with Jarrad Branthwaite. BBC Sport said he received eight minutes of treatment on the pitch, while Turkish outlet Sporx reported the game was stopped for nine minutes. ScoreLab data shows he played 75 minutes before 21-year-old Mike Penders came on. According to Sporx, Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso said Martínez was conscious when he left the stadium.
| Premier League | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 6 |
| Starts | 6 |
| Minutes | 525 |
| Average rating | 7.23 |
| Minutes vs Everton | 75 |
| Rating vs Everton | 7.68 |
Source: ScoreLab data
Timeline
- 17 October 2026 — Martínez collides with Jarrad Branthwaite in Everton 0-2 Chelsea and is stretchered off.
- 17 October 2026 — He undergoes an operation on the fractured jaw in hospital; Chelsea call it a success.
- 18 October 2026 — Martínez thanks fans on social media and says he expects to return within weeks.
- 24 October 2026 — Chelsea host Tottenham in the Premier League.
- 31 October 2026 — Chelsea host Manchester United in the Premier League.
Who will replace Martínez in the Chelsea goal?
Mike Penders is expected to deputise in the Chelsea goal while Emiliano Martínez recovers. BBC Sport reports that the Belgian should start a minimum of three games: Premier League fixtures against Tottenham and Manchester United, plus a Carabao Cup trip to Liverpool sandwiched between them. Chelsea paid Genk £17m for Penders in 2024. ScoreLab data shows he played the full 90 minutes in this season's Carabao Cup wins over Luton Town (2-0) and Leeds United (6-3), before making his Premier League debut with 15 minutes at Everton.
“Mike has personality. He's brave and we have full trust with him. He did well when he came on.”
Who is Emiliano Martínez?
Emiliano Martínez, born on 2 September 1992, is an Argentine goalkeeper who moved to Chelsea from Aston Villa in summer 2026, ending a six-season spell at Villa Park, according to BBC Sport. ScoreLab data shows he has won 70 caps for Argentina and lifted 1 World Cup and 2 Copa América titles. He started all 6 of Chelsea's Premier League matches this season and was the undisputed first choice until the injury.
Sources
- 1.
- 2.
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- 4.The GuardianRob Smyth
Frequently asked questions
Why did Emiliano Martínez have surgery?
Emiliano Martínez fractured his jaw when he clashed with Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite during Everton 0-2 Chelsea on 17 October 2026. Chelsea said the operation was successful.
When will Emiliano Martínez return?
Martínez expects to be playing again within weeks; Chelsea have not confirmed a return date.
Who will play in goal for Chelsea?
According to BBC Sport, 21-year-old Mike Penders should start a minimum of three games.
How many games has Martínez played this season?
ScoreLab data shows Martínez started all 6 of his Premier League games in 2026/27, playing 525 minutes with an average rating of 7.23.
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This analysis was prepared by the ScoreLab Newsroom using the sources listed and ScoreLab data. Editorial policy