Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has defended goalkeeper Robert Sanchez following the Blues’ 3-2 defeat to Arsenal in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge. Rosenior insisted he was “accountable” for the mistakes made by his keeper.
Chelsea fell behind early when Sanchez failed to deal with Declan Rice’s seventh-minute corner, allowing Ben White to score from close range. Arsenal extended their lead shortly after halftime as White’s low cross slipped past Sanchez, with Viktor Gyokeres finishing from a few yards out. Martin Zubimendi added a third to put Mikel Arteta’s side firmly in control. Chelsea’s substitute Alejandro Garnacho later scored twice to offer hope ahead of the return leg at the Emirates Stadium.
Speaking after the match, Rosenior, in his first home game as Chelsea head coach, defended Sanchez and explained that the goalkeeper is still adapting to new tactical demands.
“It’s a team goal, it’s not just on Rob. I’m asking Rob to do things he hasn’t done before. When my players make mistakes, I’m accountable. That’s on me,” Rosenior said.
He praised Sanchez for a world-class save in the second half that prevented an even larger deficit, adding, “He will improve in terms of his understanding.”
Rosenior also highlighted the impact of injuries and illness on his squad during the brief preparation period since taking charge.
“That’s Rob’s first game with me. I’ve had two days’ work with him. I have to put my imprint on the team. That’s why I’m here,” he explained.
Chelsea will host Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium for the second leg of the semi-final.
Elijah Adeyemi
