Chelsea Sanchez embraces fresh challenge as Penders arrives

Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez says the arrival of 21‑year‑old Mike Penders will raise standards as the club prepares for the new Premier League season. The 28‑year‑old Sanchez, who faced competition last season, welcomes the fresh challenge at Stamford Bridge.

Sanchez joined Chelsea from Brighton in a £25 million transfer in 2023. Now entering his fourth season with the Blues, he has made 111 appearances in all competitions. [Getty Images] archives capture his debut moments. The club’s official photo archive, labelled Images], showcases the new signing.

Last season, Sanchez saw off competition from Filip Jorgensen, who is set to join Strasbourg on loan. That rivalry helped sharpen his performances in the goal.

Penders spent the previous campaign with French side Strasbourg. He returns to Stamford Bridge, bringing fresh competition for the number‑one shirt. At 6ft 7in, the young keeper dominates his area.

New manager Xabi Alonso has made it clear that every position in his squad is “open”, including the goalkeeper spot. Sanchez welcomed this stance, saying it pushes everyone to improve.

"He is a great young goalie and had a great season at Strasbourg last year. He's tall, 6ft 7in, dominates his area, is very calm and is a top guy. I think he is going to be a great keeper in the future. He has massive potential," Sanchez said.

"You never know what will happen to the first‑choice keeper, whether he is going to get injured or go through a rough period. So you need another option to provide cover and push each other to raise the level," he added.

Both keepers are expected to battle for the starting spot throughout the campaign, a rivalry that Sanchez believes will benefit Chelsea and help both develop under Alonso’s open‑door policy.