Chelsea goalkeeper Dibu Martínez forced off after clash with Branthwaite

In the waning minutes of the Evertón‑Chelsea friendly, Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez was knocked unconscious after a heavy collision with defender Branthwaite, prompting medics to rush him off on a stretcher while he wore a neck brace.

Collision and immediate response

With fifteen minutes remaining, the world‑cup champion from Qatar 2022 collided with Branthwaite inside his own area and was left immobilised. His teammates shouted for urgent medical assistance, and after an initial assessment he was escorted off the pitch on a stretcher, still conscious and waving to the home crowd.

Implications for the national team

The incident has set off alarms within the Selección Argentina, as the coaching staff under Lionel Scaloni will monitor Martínez’s condition closely ahead of the November FIFA double‑header against Uruguay and Costa Rica on home soil. Martínez will undergo further medical examinations, and the Argentine federation awaits the first reports from the specialists.

In addition to the goalkeeper’s plight, the Argentine side confirmed that forward Lautaro Martínez has suffered a hamstring strain, ruling him out of the same November window. The Inter striker is expected to miss several weeks, with a tentative return date of 22 November, just before the Serie A clash with Atalanta.

The dual setbacks leave the national team without two of its key attackers as it enters the post‑Messi Era. Both injuries underscore the fragility of the squad CON the upcoming schedule, and the loss of MARTÍNEZ will be felt keenly by Scaloni’s staff.

Fans of the Blues gave Martínez a standing ovation as he left the field, acknowledging his contribution despite the abrupt end to his appearance. The Argentine camp remains hopeful for a swift recovery, but the timing of the injuries could influence squad selection for the crucial November fixtures.