RismadarVoice Reporters, 30 August 2026
Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martínez made his debut for the club on Sunday after completing his move from Aston Villa, as the Premier League continued with another round of fixtures.
The Argentina international was named in the starting lineup by manager Xabi Alonso for Chelsea’s home clash against Brighton & Hove Albion, just days after completing a reported £7.5 million transfer.
Martínez, who turns 34 this week, said joining Chelsea was an easy decision for him and his family, adding that he was excited to begin his new chapter at Stamford Bridge.
“Coming to Chelsea, for me and my family, was an easy decision to make and I’m just over the moon — I can’t wait to get started,” Martínez said.
The goalkeeper’s arrival comes after concerns over Robert Sánchez’s performances, with the Spaniard left out of the matchday squad for the Brighton encounter.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso made three changes from the side that defeated Fulham 3-2 in their opening Premier League match. Wesley Fofana returned to the defence, Pedro Neto started, while Martínez replaced Sánchez in goal.
Meanwhile, Brighton also made three changes after their impressive 4-0 victory over Aston Villa on the opening weekend. Georginio Rutter, Jack Hinshelwood and Yasin Ayari missed the match through injury.
Elsewhere on Sunday, Sunderland hosted Fulham, Leeds United faced Brentford, and Manchester United prepared to welcome Ipswich Town later in the day.
Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris said his team were focused on responding after their opening defeat, while confirming that recruitment discussions were continuing before the transfer window closes.
The Premier League transfer window remains a major talking point, with clubs working to complete final deals before the deadline.
Chelsea’s early-season progress under Alonso has attracted attention after victories over Fulham and Luton, but the Spaniard acknowledged that challenges remain ahead as the campaign develops.
