Brief

Emiliano Martínez expects return weeks after surgery following head clash

The Argentine keeper posted a hospital update after surgery for a head injury that forced his removal during Chelsea's 2‑0 win at Everton.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 19 Oct 2026 15:30:52 GMT

Emiliano Martínez confirmed on Instagram that he underwent successful surgery after a head clash with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite during Chelsea's 2‑0 victory at Goodison Park. The Argentine goalkeeper was carried off on a stretcher after more than eight minutes of on‑field treatment and was taken to hospital for precautionary tests, with reports of a broken jaw.

Martínez wrote, "Thank you for all the messages, the operation went well. We'll be back in a few weeks," indicating an expected return within weeks. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso told TNT Sports that Martínez left the stadium conscious and that the injury was initially assessed as a concussion, adding that further tests were needed.

Mike Penders replaced Martínez in the 73rd minute, making his Premier League debut as Chelsea held a 1‑0 lead before Pedro Neto scored the second goal, securing the club's first away win of the season and its first clean sheet in nine months.

Key facts

Emiliano Martínez underwent surgery after a head clash with Jarrad Branthwaite (independent.co.uk)
Martínez expects to return in a few weeks (independent.co.uk)
Chelsea won 2‑0 at Everton, securing their first away win and first clean sheet in nine months (independent.co.uk)