According to a report by Football London on Monday, November 2, 2026, Chelsea have received a major boost following their 2-0 victory over Manchester United, with goalkeeper Mike Penders' recent performances giving manager Xabi Alonso less reason to rush Emiliano Martínez back from injury.

The 21-year-old Belgian has impressed in his recent appearances, increasing confidence that Chelsea can manage Martínez's recovery without placing unnecessary pressure on the Argentine international.

Penders was given an opportunity in the first team after Martínez suffered a fractured jaw during Chelsea's 2-0 victory over Everton on October 17.

However, his first major Premier League test proved difficult. During Chelsea's 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, the young goalkeeper punched a corner into his own net, allowing Spurs to take the lead at Stamford Bridge.

Despite the costly error, Alonso publicly backed Penders and encouraged him to learn from the experience.

The Belgian responded positively against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup, producing an impressive performance with several important saves and stopping Ryan Gravenberch's penalty during the shootout, although Chelsea eventually suffered defeat.

He continued his improvement against Manchester United, making crucial interventions to help the Blues secure a clean sheet in their 2-0 victory.

One of his best moments came late in the match when he produced an excellent fingertip save to push Bryan Mbeumo's powerful long-range effort onto the crossbar.

Alonso praised the goalkeeper's development, highlighting his performances against Liverpool and Manchester United.

"Not just today, I think that in Liverpool he was really solid, he had a very good performance, very stable for a 'keeper and today he has shown a good level," the Chelsea manager said.

He added: "Another clean sheet, the second one in three games and we need to keep going. Mike has overcome the difficult moment that we got here last Saturday and this is part of the development of a goalkeeper, of any player."

Meanwhile, Martínez could return sooner than initially expected, although he may have to wear a protective mask.

With Penders demonstrating his ability to handle first-team responsibility, Chelsea can afford to give Martínez sufficient time to recover without risking another injury setback.