Sánchez names Penders a fierce rival after Chelsea’s Milan triumph

After the Blues’ 3-0 preseason victory over AC Milan, goalkeeper Robert Sánchez declared teammate Mike Penders a strong rival for the starting spot, highlighting the young keeper’s massive potential, calm presence and the way his performances could lift the entire squad.

Sánchez described Penders as a strong rival who could push the entire squad to higher levels. He made the comments after the win over AC Milan.

In a club website interview, Sánchez said he is prepared to compete with Penders for the starting spot. He added, “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.”

Sánchez emphasized the importance of healthy competition within the squad. “You never know what will happen to the first‑choice keeper, whether he is going to get injured or go through a rough period,” he said, adding that another option is needed to provide cover and push each other to raise the level.

He also noted that having one or two players pushing each other daily is always beneficial. “I think it is always good to have one or two people pushing you every day,” Sánchez said.

With 111 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea, Sánchez is among the most experienced players in head coach Enzo Alonso’s squad. His experience positions him as a key figure in the goalkeeping battle.

Sánchez expects to battle Penders for the starting goalkeeper position throughout the season. The competition is expected to shape the goalkeeper hierarchy for the upcoming campaign.