According to a report by the Evening Standard on Thursday, October 29, 2026, Emiliano Martinez is optimistic about returning from his broken jaw ahead of schedule in a boost for Chelsea.

The goalkeeper suffered the injury during Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League victory away to Everton two weeks ago after colliding with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite. Martinez was stretchered off the pitch at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and subsequently underwent surgery.

Following the operation, the Argentine goalkeeper said he expected to be “back in a few weeks”, with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso also backing up that expected recovery timeline before last weekend’s league meeting with Tottenham.

However, there is now optimism that Martinez could recover faster than initially anticipated and return to action ahead of schedule.

Martinez has been an important player for Chelsea since joining the club from Aston Villa for £7.5 million during the summer transfer window. Before suffering the injury, he had started six consecutive Premier League matches for the Blues.

His absence has opened the door for 21-year-old Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders to take over between the posts.

Penders started Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat against Tottenham and was also in goal for Wednesday evening’s Carabao Cup clash with Liverpool, which ended in a penalty shootout defeat for the Blues.

Despite Chelsea’s elimination from the competition, Penders produced an impressive performance during the shootout. He saved Ryan Gravenberch’s penalty, giving Chelsea an opportunity to secure victory before Liverpool eventually prevailed.

The young goalkeeper had endured a difficult Premier League debut against Tottenham, however, after scoring an own goal that handed the north London side the lead. Penders punched Mateus Fernandes’ corner into his own net during the encounter.

Chelsea are preparing for another difficult Premier League fixture on Saturday when they host Manchester United. Penders is expected to retain his place in goal for the match as Martinez continues his recovery from the jaw injury.

Chelsea currently sit fifth in the Premier League table and have kept one clean sheet this season. A quicker-than-expected return for Martinez would provide another option for Alonso as Chelsea look to strengthen their defensive performances and maintain their position in the league standings.