Enzo Maresca Comments on Robert Sanchez After Costly Errors in Chelsea’s Loss to Man City

Chelsea suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Manchester City on Saturday, with goalkeeper Robert Sanchez playing a major role in the loss due to two costly mistakes. Despite this, manager Enzo Maresca expressed mixed feelings, standing by his goalkeeper while also hinting at possible changes in the future.

Robert Sanchez’s Blunders Prove Costly

Chelsea started strongly, taking the lead within three minutes at the Etihad Stadium, but things unraveled quickly. Robert Sanchez’s first mistake came just before halftime when he failed to close down Matheus Nunes, allowing the ball to spill to Josko Gvardiol, who scored the equalizer.

The second error, however, was even more glaring. Sanchez rushed out of his area in an attempt to intercept a long ball intended for Erling Haaland but got caught in two minds. Instead of retreating to his goal or challenging for the ball, he hesitated, giving Haaland an easy opportunity to chip the ball into an empty net.

These errors have been a recurring issue for Sanchez this season, with the Spaniard leading the Premier League in mistakes directly resulting in goals—five in total.

Maresca’s Reaction: Trust, but with Caution

After the game, Enzo Maresca addressed Sanchez’s performance, offering a blend of support and critique:

“We trust Robert for sure, but in the same moment, the first one who is aware he is making mistakes is Robert. Now we have one entire week [to train], and we see the reaction and decide for the next game.”

Maresca acknowledged that Sanchez knows he needs to improve, emphasizing that the goalkeeper is “completely aware” of his shortcomings. However, the Chelsea boss also noted that Sanchez remains “far, far, far from where I want him to be,” suggesting that improvements are necessary if Sanchez is to retain his spot as Chelsea’s number one.

Alternatives and Transfer Speculation

Chelsea have alternatives in their squad, including 22-year-old Filip Jorgensen, who has featured in cup competitions this season. However, Jorgensen has struggled to make an impact, failing to keep a clean sheet in his two Premier League appearances.

The club has also been linked with Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel, but no transfer is expected in January. If Sanchez’s inconsistent performances persist, Maresca may push for a new goalkeeper sooner rather than later.

Can Chelsea Bounce Back?

Chelsea fans have been vocal about their frustrations, but Maresca’s comments suggest that the situation is being monitored closely. Whether Sanchez gets another chance or Chelsea makes changes in the starting lineup remains to be seen.

What’s your take on Sanchez’s performances this season? Should Chelsea stick with him or seek a new solution? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!