Opinion: Sanchez starting immediately over Petrovic would be a kick in the teeth

You’ll see, said Mauricio Pochettino in a press conference before Chelsea’s match against Manchester City on Saturday, talking about whether Robert Sanchez would play.

Robert Sanchez has been Chelsea’s main goalkeeper since Kepa left for Real Madrid just before the start of the 23/24 season. He played in all sixteen Premier League games and in rounds 2, 3, & 4 of the Carabao Cup. But during Chelsea’s 2-0 loss to Everton, he got injured in the 84th minute, and Đorđe Petrović had to replace him.

Petrović faced a tough challenge as Chelsea had lost three of their last four Premier League games. But in his first full 90 minutes, Chelsea won against Sheffield United. Then, in the Carabao Cup, Petrović became the hero in a penalty shootout against Newcastle.

During the holiday season, Petrović played in three consecutive league wins, making an incredible save in a 3-2 victory over Luton Town. He also started in all three FA Cup matches and will play against Leeds in two weeks.

Since Petrović has performed well as Chelsea’s main goalkeeper, it wouldn’t be fair to suddenly replace him with Sanchez, especially if it’s for the upcoming match at Wembley. Competition is important at Chelsea, but it should be fair. Benching someone who has been doing well wouldn’t be right for healthy competition.

An incredible save from Djordje in a big moment! ????#CFC | #LutChe pic.twitter.com/1bb2tpijTu

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 31, 2023