Do Chelsea Need a New Goalkeeper? Sánchez Shines in the Final, But Is It Enough?

Do Chelsea Need a New Goalkeeper? Sánchez Shines in the Final, But Is It Enough?
Robert Sánchez

Robert Sánchez delivered his best performance in months during Chelsea’s 3–0 Club World Cup final win over PSG, keeping a clean sheet and making several key saves under pressure. It was a reminder of the talent that brought him to Stamford Bridge in the first place.

But after a full season of inconsistency, errors, and nervy moments on the ball, Chelsea fans — and even legends — are still wondering:

Is it time to bring in a new goalkeeper?

Mikel Weighs In

After the final whistle, John Obi Mikel didn’t hold back:

"I still believe we do need a top, top goalkeeper. Robert Sánchez had a brilliant game today but going into the new season with the Champions League and the Premier League I think you still need another top goalkeeper that is going to come in and compete with him."

It’s a balanced take — praise for the performance, but a clear message: consistency matters at the very top level.

The Case Against Sánchez

  • 5 errors leading to goals — most in the Chelsea squad
  • Shaky distribution under pressure, especially in Maresca’s build-from-the-back system
  • Confidence dips that visibly impacted defenders in front of him

While he showed up when it mattered most in the final, the concern is whether he can maintain that level week in, week out across a season.

The Case For Keeping Him

  • Big-game composure: Stepped up against PSG on the global stage
  • Still just 27: Room to improve under Maresca
  • Already in the squad: Could remain as a strong No. 2 or cup starter

Could he remove the errors from his game and be Chelsea's No.1 for the 2025/26 season?

Verdict: Good Enough or Good in One Game?

Sánchez deserves credit — but one brilliant final doesn’t erase a season of doubts.

Chelsea’s ambitions are sky-high. Champions League football is back, the Premier League remains brutal, and every top side relies on a consistent, confident shot-stopper.

If the right goalkeeper becomes available, Chelsea should act, with Sánchez remaining as the solid no. 2.

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