Chelsea’s new goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez was forced off on a stretcher after a frightening head injury during the Premier League clash against Everton on Saturday. The Argentina international collided with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite while challenging for a free kick at Hill Dickinson Stadium, leading to a lengthy stoppage and his immediate substitution.
What Happened in the Collision
Around the 66th–75th minute, with Chelsea leading 1-0 thanks to Pedro Neto’s early second-half goal, Everton were awarded a free kick. Kieran Dewsbury-Hall delivered a dangerous left-footed in-swinger into the box. Martínez came out to punch the ball clear but made heavy head-to-head contact with Branthwaite, who was attempting to head the delivery on goal.
The impact was severe. Martínez went down and remained on the ground, with reports noting he displayed the fencing response—an involuntary arm movement often associated with concussion. Medical staff from both teams rushed onto the pitch. After several minutes of treatment, Martínez was carefully placed on a stretcher and carried off. He was responsive at the time, with his arms folded across his chest.
Branthwaite also required attention and underwent concussion protocol checks. He was able to continue, while Martínez could not. The stoppage lasted nearly 10 minutes.
Match Context and Substitution
Chelsea had taken the lead shortly after half-time through Pedro Neto. At the time of the incident, the score remained Everton 0-1 Chelsea. Young goalkeeper Mike Penders, aged 21, replaced Martínez and made his Premier League debut. The substitution was forced rather than tactical, highlighting the seriousness of the situation for Xabi Alonso’s side.
The match was taking place at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium in Matchweek 7 of the 2026/27 Premier League season. Martínez had started between the posts for Chelsea, continuing as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper after his late summer transfer from Aston Villa.
Who Is Emiliano Martínez?
Emiliano “Emi” Martínez, 34, is a World Cup-winning goalkeeper for Argentina and a key figure in Chelsea’s squad. He joined the Blues from Aston Villa in late August 2026 in a surprise move that saw him immediately claim the number one spot. Known for his shot-stopping ability, presence, and big-game experience, Martínez has been a consistent performer for both club and country.
This is not his first injury concern. He has dealt with finger and muscular issues in recent seasons, though a head injury of this nature is particularly concerning given the protocols around concussions in modern football.
Implications for Chelsea
The loss of Martínez mid-match is a significant blow for Chelsea. Penders now has the responsibility of protecting the lead (and any subsequent scoreline) in his first Premier League appearance. Beyond the game itself, Alonso and the club’s medical staff will await a full assessment of the injury. Head injuries typically require careful monitoring, and Martínez’s availability for upcoming fixtures remains uncertain until further updates are provided by the club.
Fans and observers have expressed concern across social media, with many hoping the injury proves less severe than the on-field scenes suggested.
Latest Status
As of the latest reports from the match, no official medical diagnosis has been released. Martínez was responsive when leaving the field, which is a positive sign, but the club is expected to provide an update once he has been fully assessed. Further details are anticipated from Xabi Alonso or Chelsea’s medical team later on Saturday.
This remains a developing story. Supporters of both Chelsea and Argentina will be hoping for positive news on the goalkeeper’s condition in the coming hours and days.