LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Chelsea have decided to keep faith with Robert Sánchez as their first-choice goalkeeper for the 2026/27 season, ending any plans to pursue AC Milan shot-stopper Mike Maignan.
Manager Enzo Maresca is expected to rely on Sánchez and highly rated youngster Mike Penders as part of his goalkeeping plans after the Spaniard impressed during the FIFA Club World Cup.
Sánchez retained his place between the sticks following a series of strong performances and significantly reduced the costly errors that affected his early spell at Stamford Bridge.
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Penders, 20, returns after an impressive loan spell at Strasbourg, with Chelsea viewing the Belgian as one of the club’s brightest goalkeeping prospects. He is expected to compete with Sánchez during pre-season.
Filip Jørgensen also remains part of Chelsea’s goalkeeping department and is regarded as an important member of the squad after initially being signed to feature mainly in cup competitions.
Chelsea’s decision means the club will not move for Maignan or any other established goalkeeper this summer, choosing instead to place its trust in Sánchez while allowing Penders to continue his development.
The Blues believe their current goalkeeping options provide the quality and competition needed ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
