Chelsea have officially announced the signing of Emiliano Martínez from Aston Villa. According to Chelsea’s official announcement, the contract runs for three years, and the new goalkeeper will wear No. 26.
Started Against Brighton on the Day of the Signing
The transfer drew attention not only because of its timing but also because Martínez went straight into the starting lineup. According to Chelsea’s official team sheet, Martínez started in goal against Brighton & Hove Albion on the day he joined the club.
Chelsea included their new goalkeeper in the starting lineup immediately after completing the signing.
Head coach Xabi Alonso explained that he selected Martínez because he believed the goalkeeper’s ability and character would benefit the team and allow him to make an immediate impact.
Martínez’s Career at Aston Villa
Before moving to Chelsea, Martínez made 256 appearances over six seasons at Aston Villa. He was also described as the goalkeeper who contributed to Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup victory.
The signing has also drawn attention to the competition for the starting goalkeeper position at Chelsea. The Guardian reported that Martínez’s arrival raises questions about Robert Sánchez’s place in the starting lineup and his future at the club. However, Sánchez’s release, move to the bench, or long-term position in the starting hierarchy has not been confirmed at this time.
Official Announcement Takes Priority on Contract Details
Chelsea’s official announcement states that the contract is for three years. The Guardian, meanwhile, described the terms differently, creating a discrepancy in the reporting. Therefore, the details that can be stated with certainty as of publication are the three-year contract and No. 26, both confirmed in Chelsea’s official announcement.
Relevant sources are as follows.
- Chelsea FC, [Emiliano Martinez signs for Chelsea!](https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/article/emiliano-martinez-signs-for-chelsea) — checked August 30, 2026
- Chelsea FC, [Emi Martinez's Chelsea squad number confirmed](https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/article/emi-martinez-chelsea-squad-number-confirmed) — checked August 30, 2026
- Chelsea FC, [Confirmed Chelsea line up vs Brighton](https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/article/confirmed-chelsea-line-up-vs-brighton-aug-26) — checked August 30, 2026
- Chelsea FC, [Xabi Alonso on why Martinez starts](https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/article/xabi-alonso-on-why-martinez-starts) — checked August 30, 2026
- The Guardian, [Chelsea agree deal to sign Emiliano Martínez from Aston Villa](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/aug/27/chelsea-agree-deal-sign-emiliano-martinez-aston-villa-enzo-fernandez) — checked August 30, 2026