Emi Martinez switches to No.1 as Chelsea plans consolation for unwanted souvenir
Emi Martinez has moved into Chelsea’s No.1 shirt after only one appearance in No.26, underlining his expected status as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Emi Martinez has been handed Chelsea’s No.1 shirt just days after making his debut in the iconic No.26, marking another significant development in the club’s goalkeeping situation.
The Argentina international initially took No.26 following his £7.5 million move from Aston Villa, with the number carrying strong links to former Chelsea captain John Terry.
Martinez had received Terry’s blessing before accepting the shirt, but his stay in the number has proved extremely brief.
Chelsea have now confirmed that the 33-year-old will wear No.1, a change that further indicates the role the club expects him to play under manager Xabi Alonso.
Martinez made his first appearance for the Blues in a dramatic 4-3 victory over Brighton, having arrived after Chelsea became increasingly concerned about their goalkeeping options.
Robert Sanchez had previously occupied the No.1 shirt, but his position came under renewed scrutiny following errors during the opening stages of the campaign.
Sanchez has subsequently left Stamford Bridge on loan for Como, clearing the way for Martinez to take over the traditional goalkeeper’s number.
The switch also comes after Martinez’s arrival was completed late in the transfer window, with Chelsea initially planning to begin the season with Sanchez and Mike Penders as their main options.
Martinez brings considerable experience to the squad after six seasons at Villa, while his international career includes a World Cup triumph with Argentina in 2022 and Copa America successes.
His move to No.1 therefore represents more than a simple change of shirt, as Chelsea appear to have settled on the veteran goalkeeper as their preferred option between the posts.
Martinez could make his first appearance in the new number when Chelsea face Arsenal in their next Premier League fixture.
Meanwhile, fan who purchased his No.26 shirt will not necessarily be left with an unwanted souvenir, as Chelsea have confirmed arrangements involving Martinez and shirts already bought through official club channels.
