New Chelsea signing Emiliano Martinez seized control of the team's defensive line during his debut match in the Premier League against Brighton (4-3).
Registered just hours before kick-off, the Argentine goalkeeper turned the penalty area into an impromptu strategy room. At a crucial moment in the match, with Chelsea's lead reduced to 3-2, the 33-year-old called over captain Reece James for a one-on-one chat, followed by gathering defenders Yorrel Hato and Levi Colwill to coordinate their movements and cover.
Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso praised his new number one's leadership qualities after the final whistle:
Martinez has that charisma, that special aura which can have a massive impact on all the other players.
The London club forked out around £7.5 million to Aston Villa not just for his sharp reflexes, but also for his commanding presence. Having made 256 appearances for the Birmingham club and winning the Europa League, Martinez left following the signing of Dzion Suzuki and a failed transfer to Juventus. Errors from Robert Sanchez in the opening match against Fulham (3-2) forced Alonso to act quickly, and Martinez was immediately included in the starting XI.
Before making the move, the goalkeeper sought advice from club legends John Terry and Petr Cech:
I spoke with John Terry and Petr Cech. It was easy to decide to join Chelsea — I came here to win the league. I’m here to bring the necessary reliability and solidity to the back line.
A thrilling goal fest at Stamford Bridge
The match unfolded dramatically. Chelsea was in control at 3-0 thanks to goals from Romeo Lavia, Pedro Neto, and Joao Pedro. However, Malik Yalquee reduced the deficit before Pedro inadvertently diverted Pascal Gross's cross into his own net. In the 74th minute, Cole Palmer extended the hosts' lead to 4-2, but in stoppage time, Gross headed in from a cross to make it 4-3.
Martinez showcased his skills with confident claim to crosses and a stunning save from Yalquee's tricky effort prior to the first goal. While experts didn't blame the newcomer for the goals conceded, Chelsea have now let in five goals in their opening two matches of the season.
Reflecting on the nail-biting encounter, Martinez summed it up:
This is a victory, albeit far from ideal. We urgently need to cut down the number of goals we’re conceding.
