If he’s serious about keeping his team in the top six he needs to stop the nonsensical support of several players especially the current keeper. That mistake just exposed that the keeper is not doing his job” – This is according to Michael Owen as he declares that Enzo Maresca’s Unjustifiable Support for Robert Sanchez Needs to Stop
Chelsea’s Last Victory Over Manchester City: A Champions League Final to Remember
The last time Chelsea triumphed over Manchester City was in the 2021 Champions League final. On that memorable night in Porto, the Blues clinched a narrow 1-0 victory, securing their second European title. However, their fortunes have since shifted. In their most recent meeting at the Etihad Stadium, Chelsea briefly rekindled hope by scoring within two minutes, only to squander their advantage due to defensive errors and questionable decisions—both on the pitch and in the dugout.
One of the most glaring issues was the continued trust placed in goalkeeper Robert Sánchez by manager Enzo Maresca. Despite recent errors, Sánchez remained between the posts, and his mistakes once again proved costly.
Sánchez’s Errors and Their Consequences
Sánchez was already under scrutiny following a costly blunder in Chelsea’s match against Wolves earlier that week. Yet, against Manchester City, he made another critical error. In a key moment, Sánchez charged out of his area to confront Erling Haaland but miscalculated entirely. Stranded and unable to recover, he left the goal wide open, allowing Haaland to lob the ball into an empty net. Sánchez’s indecision and poor positioning turned the tide in City’s favor, with Chelsea unable to recover.
Maresca’s continued faith in Sánchez has drawn increasing criticism. Speaking before the match, the manager gave only tepid support for the Spanish goalkeeper, acknowledging that Sánchez remains his first choice but admitting he is “far, far, far from where I want him to be.” At 27, Sánchez is no longer a young prospect, and doubts persist about whether he can develop into the dependable presence Chelsea desperately need.
Urgency for Change in Goal
With the January transfer window still open for a short time, Chelsea must act quickly to address their goalkeeping situation. Filip Jørgensen, though inconsistent, may be worth considering as a short-term solution. Alternatively, the club could look to the market for reinforcements. Without a change, Chelsea’s hopes for a top-four finish will continue to fade. Currently sitting sixth in the table, with Newcastle and Bournemouth in fine form, a Champions League spot is slipping further from reach.
Chelsea’s Defensive Woes and City’s Tactical Precision
Manchester City capitalized on Chelsea’s defensive vulnerabilities with tactical precision. Despite expectations that City might struggle after their recent Champions League setback in Paris, Pep Guardiola’s team delivered a strong response. Chelsea’s high defensive line, coupled with a lack of pressing, exposed fullbacks Reece James and Marc Cucurella, making them easy targets for City’s attack.
The equalizer came through effective interplay between Matheus Nunes and Joško Gvardiol, while Noni Madueke’s poor defensive awareness compounded Chelsea’s struggles. Sánchez’s errors continued to undermine the team, as he fumbled a routine save into the path of Omar Marmoush. Though the goal was ruled offside, it highlighted Sánchez’s lack of composure.
City’s tactical shift to a more direct approach, utilizing Haaland’s physicality, further exposed Chelsea’s frailties. Haaland not only scored their second goal but also provided the assist for Phil Foden’s third, ensuring a convincing 3-1 victory for City.
A Turning Point for Both Teams
For Manchester City, the performance was a statement of their resilience and determination to reclaim dominance. For Chelsea, it was a sobering reminder of their ongoing struggles. If Maresca hopes to turn their season around, he must make bold decisions—starting with replacing Sánchez. Without immediate action, Chelsea’s season risks descending further into disappointment.
